Co-op Deli to Launch 'Smart Meal' Bento Developed by Kagawa Nutrition University Students on May 18

The Co-op Deli Consumers' Co-operative Union announced it will begin selling the 'Yukari Tartar Horse Mackerel and Chicken Tempura Bento' starting Monday, May 18, 2026. The product was developed by students from the Department of Food Culture and Nutrition at Kagawa Nutrition University, based on a comprehensive industry-academia cooperation agreement between the two organizations.

This bento conforms to the 'Smart Meal' standard, a criterion for healthy meals. Under the guidance of full-time lecturer Takako Asao, students researched and analyzed the needs of Co-op Deli members and consumers to create the product. It is the 15th installment in a bento series that aims to achieve a balance between deliciousness and health.

**Product Details:** - Product Name: 'Yukari Tartar Horse Mackerel and Chicken Tempura Bento' - Price: 698 JPY (753 JPY with tax) - Launch Date: Monday, May 18, 2026 - Available at: Stores with prepared food facilities belonging to five member co-ops of the Co-op Deli Union (Co-op Mirai, Ibaraki Co-op, Tochigi Co-op, Co-op Gunma, Co-op Nagano). Availability may vary by store. - Nutritional Information: Conforms to the 'Substantial' Smart Meal standard. Contains 849 kcal, 28.3g protein, 27.4g fat, 115.7g carbohydrates, 3.4g salt equivalent, and 143.9g of vegetables.

A student involved in the development commented, "We paired crispy fried horse mackerel and chicken tempura with a special Japanese-style tartar sauce featuring the refreshing aroma of red shiso. The flavor of yukari and the richness of the tartar sauce are a perfect match."

The bento series, launched in November 2023 under the concept "Every day is healthy and delicious with Co-op Deli!", is also known for its distinctive paper wrappers featuring food illustrations drawn by the students.

The agreement between Co-op Deli and Kagawa Nutrition University was signed in 2015 to jointly promote product development and disseminate information on food education under the theme of 'health.' The Co-op Deli Union plans to continue its efforts to support healthy eating habits through this partnership.