On October 1, 2025, NHK General’s news program “Afternoon LIVE News Soon” aired a feature titled “Food Inclusivity: From Vegan to Food Allergies.” In this segment, an event co-organized by our organization and several vegan-certified products were introduced.
The special focused on food inclusivity, highlighting efforts to meet diverse dietary needs. It was broadcast in two parts: one covering vegan food and another focusing on food allergies.
In the first half, which focused on vegan food, the program introduced the growing attention to vegan food products worldwide and in Japan, across all age groups, from the perspectives of health, environmental protection, and animal welfare. As a specific example, the event “Learn Vegan, Know Food” held at Hokutopia in Kita City, Tokyo, in September 2025 was featured.
This event aimed to expand vegan menu options in children’s cafeterias and schools. It was hosted by General Incorporated Association Pinocchio with cooperation from VegeProject Japan. The program included a lecture by our representative Haruko Kawano followed by a tasting and networking session featuring vegan foods.
Lecture by VegeProject Japan representative at the event
At the tasting session, participants sampled plant-based dishes that recreated the texture and flavor of meat and fish, as well as desserts made without dairy or eggs. Vegan sweets were provided by TableMark Co., Ltd., plant-based “crab stick” and “meat” dishes by Azuma Foods Co., Ltd., and vegan meat by Nisshin Shokai Co., Ltd. All of these products are certified by VegeProject Japan.
These items were also featured in the program, which conveyed that the vegan market is gaining attention not only from a social and environmental perspective but also as a growing business field.
Nisshin Shokai’s “Vege Fish Fillet” (top left) and “Vegan Chunk” (bottom left); Azuma Foods’ pasta salad with “Marude Kanikama” (top right); and TableMark’s “Plant-Based Croissant” (bottom right)
The program also mentioned the rising number of restaurants offering vegan Japanese cuisine. One challenge discussed was finding alternatives to fish-based broth. Featured as a plant-based alternative to bonito stock and sampled in the studio was Hamaya Katsuobushi Co., Ltd.’s “MAGI DASHI 100% Plant-Based Multipurpose Sauce – Bonito Type,” a product certified by VegeProject Japan.
Studio tasting of the vegan-certified “MAGI DASHI 100% Plant-Based Multipurpose Sauce – Bonito Type”
This NHK feature provided a valuable opportunity for many viewers to learn about the appeal and potential of vegan food.
【Related Pages】
・Event report for “Learn Vegan, Know Food”: Click here
・About vegan certification: Click here
