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Fukuju sake recognised with Organic JAS Certification

14 November 2024 By Miona Madsen

Kobe Shu-shin-kan Breweries’ sake brand Fukuju has obtained Organic JAS Certification for its organic sake, representing a significant advancement in the company’s environment-friendly initiative, ‘Sustainability Journey’.

Fukuju Koji Making

For more than 250 years, Japanese Kobe Shu-shin-kan Breweries has been dedicated to its sake brewing tradition, which relies on the local resources surrounding the city of Kobe, such as the Miyamizu water source and Yamada-Nishiki sake rice variety. However, in response to global warming affecting sake rice quality and yield, the company has shifted its focus to sustainable sake brewing.

As part of the transition, the company has taken significant steps in an effort to set new standards for organic sake production and obtained Organic JAS Certification from the local authority, the Organic Certification Center.

To achieve the recognition, Fukuju Brewery has adhered to the required brewing and management procedures. The company has produced high-quality organic sake by ingeniously utilising existing equipment rather than installing a dedicated organic rice line.

To meet the standards, the brewery has developed a system to prevent contamination during the rice-washing and koji-making stages. According to the company, the result is a reliable organic sake designed to appeal to health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.

In 2022, the brewery made a significant shift by transitioning to 100% renewable energy and achieving net-zero emissions in its brewing process, thereby contributing to a more sustainable society. Fukuju’s key green initiatives include obtaining Organic JAS Certification to promote sustainable agriculture, reaching net-zero CO2 emissions in brewing to minimise environmental impact, using locally grown rice to support local farmers and reduce transportation-related emissions, and promoting recycling and circular economy principles through products like Kobe Harvest fertiliser, all aimed at building a sustainable society.

Takenosuke Yasufuku, president of Kobe Shu-shin-kan Breweries, stated: “As our 300th anniversary in 2051 approaches, we remain committed to high-quality production and environmental responsibility. We look forward to continuing our journey of ‘brewing the future with our valued fans. ‘”

Fukuju sake has been recognised with multiple industry accolades at national and international competitions, including at the drinks business 2022 Green Awards, for its commitment to environmental responsibility.