We Are Tomodachi Autumn 2017

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24FOOD EXAMINATIONMESSAGES FROM FARMERSThrough multi-layer examinations for radioactive substances at each phase of production and distribution, Japan is enforcing a system in which only agricultural products that are confirmed to be safe are shipped.During the production phase in particular, the Fukushima Agricultural Technology Centre conducts thorough and detailed examinations of agricultural products to be shipped and distributed, with 11 staff operating 11 germanium semiconductor detectors at full capacity. Furthermore, for rice, the staple food of the Japanese The Saito family grows cucumbers in Okajima, Fukushima City. Before the earthquake they also grew other vegetables, which were so highly regarded that they were even sold at high-end grocery stores in Tokyo. But after the quake, the family decided to focus on cucumbers exclusively, in order to better manage their cultivation. Using information gathered all over Japan, the Saito family is actively exploring new farming methods, including soil improvement. They are also ensuring the utmost safety by taking measures such as only purchasing fertilizer that has been examined for radioactive cesium and other hazards.Vegetables: “Please try our delicious cucumbers! They’re grown in a safe environment in greenhouses in the spring and fall, and they’re juicy on the inside and crunchy on the outside.”The Sato family orchard is located in Iizaka, Fukushima City. After the earthquake, the Sato family participated in numerous seminars regarding food safety and has made many efforts to demonstrate the safety of its fruit. For example, they put their focus on earning JGAP certification, which is only given to those who undergo yearly third-party evaluation of food safety and environmental protection and meet the necessary criteria. At present, the Sato family’s entire farmland is JGAP certified. Their apples and persimmons have also achieved international “Global G.A.P.” certification, and they are preparing to acquire this certification for their peaches, grapes, and pears in time for the 2017 fall harvest as well. Fruits: “To reassure people around the world that our fruits are safe, we’ve earned JGAP and Global G.A.P. safety certifications. Come visit our orchard and pick some fruit for yourself!”The Goto family grows rice in Motomiya City, Fukushima, and they experienced a drastic decline in sales after the earthquake. They found that they could no longer rely on their old way of thinking, that “Fukushima rice is so good that it needs no advertising,” so they started a website to publicize the various safety measures they’re taking to reassure customers. The Goto family also welcomes everyone to visit and see the safety of its rice in person, offering hands-on farm tours and operating a farm-inn, which are receiving highly favorable reviews from customers.Rice: “Fukushima is a beautiful place, known as the ‘land of water.’ Because of its rich supply of excellent water, the land produces great rice and great sake! Please visit, eat and discover Fukushima! Our rice is delicious! And safe, of course!”