Member-only story
Japan’s Food Tech Revolution
How Tradition and Innovation Are Shaping the Future of Food
Food technology — commonly referred to as Food Tech — is booming worldwide, and Japan is taking center stage with its unique blend of tradition and cutting-edge innovation. From large-scale government grants fueling alternative protein startups to robot-run restaurants addressing labor shortages, the country is embracing big changes in how food is produced, distributed, and consumed. Below is an overview of the key trends, funding landscapes, and emerging technologies driving Japan’s Food Tech scene.
1. Government Initiatives and Funding
Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) launched the Food Tech Public-Private Council in October 2020 to bring together startups, established companies, research institutions, and government agencies. By late 2024, the council had grown to around 1,400 members, underscoring the government’s commitment to promoting innovation in this sector.
One of the council’s major efforts involves large-scale grants to support Food Tech startups. Recent recipients include companies developing genome-edited crops, technologies for turning food waste into edible powders, and new plant-based products using konnyaku and soy as primary ingredients. These…
