News On Japan

Bento boss apologizes for 500 cases of food poisoning

TOKYO, Oct 22 (News On Japan) - The president of the bento (boxed lunch) maker "Yoshidaya", responsible for over 500 cases of food poisoning nationwide last month, held his first press conference and gave a tearful apology.

Yoshidaya had outsourced the production of rice to an external contractor.

President Hiroshiro Yoshida explained, "Despite specifying the temperature for the rice, we did not measure its temperature on the first day of receiving it. We stored the rice as it was until the time of serving. We did not fully understand that under improper temperature management, there was a risk of bacteria proliferating over time. We deeply realize our immense responsibility for this incident."

The rice was warmer than usual when served, so they decided to cool it down before using it.

According to experts, "Even if cooled, the bacteria don't die, which can lead to food poisoning."

Additionally, the health department has pointed out that the containers for the rice were brought in without sterilization, and there was insufficient hand sanitation.

The number of food poisoning cases due to Yoshidaya's bento stands at 521. As the bentos were also sold at events, victims were identified across 29 prefectures nationwide. During the press conference, it was mentioned that one of the causes was over-expansion beyond their production capacity. The backdrop appears to be the business downturn due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The president went on to say, "Prioritizing sales was my naivety as a manager. From the standpoint of providing for my employees, I made such a decision. I understand that I pushed them too hard."

Choking back tears and struggling for words at times, he confirmed that they would follow the health department's guidance and work on improving their operations.

He affirmed, "We will never outsource rice again."

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

From April 1st, a new regulation took effect across Osaka Prefecture requiring all restaurants with a customer seating area larger than 30 square meters to become entirely smoke-free indoors—unless they install a designated smoking room. Establishments violating the rule face fines of up to 50,000 yen, while customers may be fined up to 30,000 yen.

The Imperial Household Agency launched an official YouTube channel on April 1st to introduce the activities of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

Japan's new fiscal year began on April 1st, with companies across the country holding entrance ceremonies to welcome new employees.

The Japanese government has released an updated damage forecast for a potential Nankai Trough megaquake, estimating that up to 298,000 people could die in the worst-case scenario. This projection reflects a slight reduction from the previous estimate of 332,000 deaths made 13 years ago.

The Japan Meteorological Agency announced on March 30th that cherry blossoms (Somei-Yoshino) in central Tokyo have reached full bloom, one day earlier than the historical average and five days earlier than last year.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Food NEWS

Pressed olives getting fed to Wagyu cows in Kagawa prefecture, a diet that enjoy only a few cows in Japan, resulting ultimately in a steak that offers - with a bit of fantasy - a very subtle and underlying flavor of juicy olives. (Aden Films)

Ramen, Japan, black ramen, broth, dashi, tonkotsu, miso, chashu, instant noodles... mmm, who's hungry? We love this food, and in this week's Great Big Story, we explore how ramen became a global phenomenon. (Great Big Story)

Join Shizuka expert guide Kaku-san for a unique tour combining tea and mixology. This in-depth tour explores some of the best tea-based food and drink (known as “chawari”) spots in Gakugeidaigaku and increasingly trendy chawari culture in Japan.

Japan’s beloved seafood is now in crisis. Compared to five years ago, catches of Pacific saury have dropped by 80%, Japanese flying squid by 55.5%, mackerel by 50%, and yellowtail by 13%.

Kura Sushi has unveiled its longest-ever conveyor belt, measuring approximately 135 meters, at its newly opened location inside the Expo venue.

Literally, 14 days out from Delivery! She runs the operation at the izakaya while her husband cooks, she has so much passion for her family restaurant! Is it a boy or a girl?! (Japanese Food Craftsman)

Strawberry is a seasonal fruit in Japan that becomes available during winter season, therefore this buffet is only available for a limited time throughout the year. (Jimmy Kim)

Welcome to Tokyo’s newest attraction: Grand Hammer! This mega complex in Shinbashi has it all, including dining options to cultural activities from across Japan and a relaxing floor with a sauna and massage chairs (both open 24/7), as well as stylish karaoke, a rooftop BBQ, geisha, and... a club? (Japan by Food)