Taiwan-grown pineapples continue to be included in school meals across Japan for the seventh consecutive year, as confirmed by the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) during an event in Tainan on May 5.
The initiative is part of the "Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation for Strengthening the Exchange on Food and Culture," established in July 2019 between the MOA's Agriculture and Food Agency and Ibaraki prefecture's Kasama City Government. Since then, Taiwan has provided bananas, mangoes, pineapples, and pomelos to elementary and junior high schools in the region. This year, Taiwan is projected to deliver nearly three tons of pineapples to 92 schools across five cities in the prefecture, according to the MOA.
MOA Deputy Minister Hu Jong-i stated that Taiwan's fruit is recognized globally for its quality and distinctive flavors. He noted that local pineapples are particularly favored in Japan, with sales increasing since 2021, and are anticipated to reach a record high of 19,373 tons in 2024. "Taiwan's fruit is loved globally for its fine quality and unique flavors," Hu said.
Hu also mentioned that the school produce program has contributed to a positive perception of Taiwan's fruit among Japan's younger generations, potentially influencing their future consumption patterns. He urged local suppliers to innovate with local ingredients and indicated that the MOA intends to further collaborate with both public and private sectors in Japan to promote Taiwan's agricultural products.
Source: Taiwan Today