Food Bank Development - Current Status in the 2020s (October 2020) Entering the 2020s, amid growing concerns about environmental pollution and food safety, the role of food banks in Japan has become increasingly important. Particularly problematic is the accumulation of harmful substances like heavy metals and dioxins in food due to environmental pollution, leading to strengthened monitoring systems nationwide.

Food Bank Development - Current Status in the 2020s (October 2020) Entering the 2020s, amid growing concerns about environmental pollution and food safety, the role of food banks in Japan has become increasingly important. Particularly problematic is the accumulation of harmful substances like heavy metals and dioxins in food due to environmental pollution, leading to strengthened monitoring systems nationwide.

For example, in Fukushima Prefecture, the effects of radioactive cesium-137 from the 2011 nuclear accident persist to this day, necessitating stringent safety inspections of agricultural and marine products. Furthermore, only Fukushima-produced rice and vegetables meeting strict standards based on radiation testing results are permitted to enter the market.

Furthermore, in Ise Bay, Mie Prefecture, pollution from industrial wastewater, including mercury and cadmium, is severe, necessitating ongoing monitoring of seafood. In response, the nationwide food bank network collaborates, freezing food samples for periodic analysis.

Corporate cooperation is also active, with Nichirei, known for its freezing technology, and the trading company Marubeni providing state-of-the-art freezing equipment to food banks. Nichirei, in particular, utilizes ultra-low temperature freezing technology at -60°C to establish a system that preserves food quality over extended periods. This technology strengthens efforts to ensure food safety while reducing food loss.

Furthermore, the government and companies have introduced a system utilizing blockchain technology to manage food bank data. This enhances food traceability, enabling rapid detection and response to food affected by contaminants. Moreover, in 2020, approximately 1.5 million tons of food were managed annually through food banks, contributing to ensuring food safety and building a sustainable food system.