Eight Hawaii companies participated in the 27th International Food Ingredients & Additives Exhibition in Tokyo, Japan
The 27th International Food Ingredients & Additives Exhibition (IFIA), held from May 17-19, 2023, at Tokyo’s Big Sight venue drew an international audience of nearly 25,000 attendees. The State of Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA) sponsored the booth, with support from the Maui Food Technology Center (MFTC). The booth showcased ingredients and innovative products from eight Hawaii companies, attracting significant attention from industry professionals and potential buyers alike.
These Hawaii companies were:
Cyanotech Corporation (Hawaii): Spirulina Pacifica® and BioAstin® Hawaiian Astaxanthin products.
Hawaii ‘Ulu Cooperative (Hawaii): Breadfruit (‘ulu) flour and samples of gluten-free shortbread cookies.
Hawaii Nutrition Company (Oahu): Dietary supplements and functional food products sourced from Hawaii.
HPC Foods, Ltd. (Oahu): Taro flour and shelf stable ready-to-eat poi.
Kauai Hemp Company (Kauai): Various forms of Japan compliant CBD products.
Malama Mushrooms (Hawaii): Locally grown and processed functional mushroom products.
Wai Meli Honey (Hawaii): Locally produced organic varietal honeys.
Waialua Estate Coffee & Chocolate (Oahu): Hawaii-grown cacao beans, nibs, milk and dark chocolates.
Nina Tanabe, MS, CFS, MFTC Project Manager for the Hawaii booth, expressed enthusiasm regarding the opportunities presented at IFIA, stating, “Participating in the IFIA, the leading food ingredients and additives, and functional food ingredients event in Japan; provided an exceptional platform for these companies to showcase their innovative products and connect with potential partners and customers. It offered them a great opportunity to expand their businesses, gain exposure in the global market, and explore potential avenues for exporting their unique food offerings.”
About Maui Food Technology Center (MFTC):
Maui Food Technology Center (MFTC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the growth and development of the food industry in Hawaii. Through their comprehensive programs and services, MFTC supports local businesses, entrepreneurs, and food manufacturers in scaling their operations, enhancing product quality, and accessing new markets. Their expertise, collaboration, and commitment to innovation have established MFTC as a valuable resource and catalyst for success within the Hawaiian food industry.
