Remote Islands Project
Through food, we seek to connect with people who live alongside the bountiful blessings of nature and revitalize their livelihoods. Leveraging the expertise and network we have cultivated as a food wholesaler, we are engaged in promotional activities for remote islands.
Enriching the Food Culture of the Japanese Archipelago
Japan Food Islands was established in April 2020 with the aim of enriching the food culture of the Japanese archipelago through remote island development and regional revitalization. We have participated as an official member since the association’s establishment. In the same year, we launched the Remote Island Project and have been collaborating with producers from Nagasaki’s outlying islands (the Goto Islands) to develop products and find customers for them.
Steady Progress and Further Expansion
We are currently working on multiple food projects based on the appealing foods cultivated on the land and in the sea of the Goto Islands, as well as the knowledge of the people who have lived there for many years. With each passing year, we have steadily seen significant progress, and we are planning to expand not only within the Goto Islands but also to other regions in the future. We will continue to collaborate with Japan Food Islands, participating companies, and of course, producers from various regions, to advance these efforts.
The Strengths NIPPON ACCESS Brings to This Project
Product Development
We offer comprehensive support, including processing methods and package design, to further enhance the appeal of local specialties and the products crafted by producers.
Demand and Supply Control
We contribute to creating a sales system tailored to the needs of retailers by establishing networks with producers to ensure sufficient production volume, proposing processing methods conducive to preservation, and undertaking other relevant activities.
Expansion of Sales Channels
We expand sales channels for producers by leveraging our nationwide distribution and sales networks. Our exhibitions serve as an opportunity to meet many retailers, and our Remote Islands Fair, where we make proposals to retailers from across the country, has been well received.
Introduction of Products
Hijiki Seaweed (Goto City) & Aosa Seaweed (Shinkamigoto Town)
Although hijiki seaweed from Fukue Island was once on the brink of extinction, it has been revived through the efforts of the local community. We offer two varieties: Me Hijiki (buds) and Naga Hijiki (stems), which have a fleshy, crisp texture further enhanced through traditional Ise processing methods. Starting in 2024, we have also added aosa seaweed from Nakadori Island, known for its rich ocean flavor, to our lineup.
Kibinago (Goto City)
Fukue Island’s kibinago (silver-stripe round herring) are known for their refined and subtle flavor. Rapid freshness deterioration posed a challenge, so we proposed facilities capable of rapid freezing. This has created an environment where both deliciousness and nutritional value can be maintained for years, enabling nationwide sales. Additionally, we have expanded sales as a fried food ingredient.
Iki Kogane (Iki City)
Nagasaki Kogane potatoes, known for their vibrant yellow color, fluffy texture, and sweet taste reminiscent of chestnuts, are cultivated on Iki Island, and only those that meet rigorous quality standards are labeled as “Iki Kogane.” We sell the entire production to build the brand and also support producers in increasing potato yields and ensuring a stable supply.
Goto Hand-stretched Udon Noodles (Shinkamigoto Town)
These udon noodles are made using camellia oil and salt from the Goto Islands. They are known for their firmness and chewy texture, which persists even after boiling. To enhance their appeal as a product, we have proposed reducing boiling times and offering sizes suitable for retail store displays. Additionally, we have established a production system in collaboration with multiple manufacturers. These noodles are sold as a private brand product.