Fushimi Kamaboko's 'Zuiyuki (Grilled Board)' Wins the USDA Alaska Seafood Award at the 77th National Kamaboko Contest

The Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute (headquartered in Juneau, Alaska, USA) sponsored the 'USDA Alaska Seafood Award' at the 77th National Kamaboko Contest, hosted by the Japan Kamaboko Association and the National Federation of Kamaboko and Marine Products Processing Cooperatives. This award is presented to outstanding products primarily made from Alaska pollock surimi. Winners receive an original trophy along with a prize of one ton of premium-grade surimi or equivalent promotional support.

(Left) Ryan Bettsford, Director, U.S. Agricultural Trade Office, USDA (Right) Mr. Takuma Fushimi, President & CEO, Fushimi Kamaboko Co., Ltd.

After rigorous evaluation, this year's award was granted to 'Zuiyuki (Grilled Board)' by Fushimi Kamaboko Co., Ltd.

This product is a grilled kamaboko characterized by its beautiful sear pattern, balanced elasticity, and smooth texture, preserving the traditional flavor passed down through generations. It uses the highest quality Alaska pollock surimi, carefully selected by the company, which places great emphasis on premium ingredients.

Alaska Pollock Fisheries

Long before global awareness of sustainability grew, Alaska has been committed to sustainable (eco-friendly) fisheries that consider ecosystems and the environment, ensuring the ocean's natural bounty is preserved for future generations.

In particular, Alaska's pollock fishery is globally recognized as a successful example of large-scale sustainable commercial fishing and is the world's largest certified sustainable fishery targeting wild seafood resources.

The greatest appeal of Alaska pollock lies in its abundance of high-quality protein. Kamaboko and other surimi-based products are rich in protein, low in calories and fat, and can be eaten without cooking, making them increasingly recognized as efficient ingredients for healthy living. In recent years, Japanese surimi products have gained popularity in Europe and the United States as a healthy protein source, with consumption steadily increasing.

The Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute congratulates Fushimi Kamaboko Co., Ltd. on receiving the USDA Alaska Seafood Award through its sponsorship of the National Kamaboko Contest, which celebrates Japan's outstanding surimi product culture and technology. The Institute also expresses deep gratitude for the company's excellence in product development using Alaska pollock surimi.

Moving forward, the Institute will continue to promote the value and awareness of natural, sustainable Alaska seafood and contribute to the further development of Japan's surimi product industry, which supports the nation's food culture.

Message from Mr. Takuma Fushimi, President & CEO, Fushimi Kamaboko Co., Ltd.

"At our company, we focus on creating products with a balance of elasticity and smooth texture. We believe our philosophy is realized thanks to the consistently high quality and stable supply of Alaska pollock surimi. We are delighted that our commitment to premium ingredients has been recognized, and we are deeply honored to receive this award. Going forward, while maintaining the quality of our existing products, we will actively pursue new product development, contribute to the revitalization of our industry, and widely promote the appeal of Alaska surimi."

About the National Kamaboko Contest

Since its first event in 1947, the National Kamaboko Contest has long served as a platform for competing in kamaboko manufacturing techniques and exchanging information among peers to support new product development. Organized by the Japan Kamaboko Association and conducted under the sponsorship of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, the contest features rigorous evaluations and awards such as the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award and the Director-General of Fisheries Agency Award.

About Fushimi Kamaboko Co., Ltd.

Since its founding in 1950, Fushimi Kamaboko has been dedicated to creating delicious kamaboko by carefully selecting ingredients based on the philosophy of 'using fresh ingredients and bringing out their best.' While sincerely preserving the taste, quality, and craftsmanship passed down since its founding, the company continues to challenge itself with flexible thinking and creativity to expand the possibilities of surimi products.

Official Website: https://fushimikamaboko.co.jp/

Online Shop: https://www.fushimikamaboko.com/

About the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute

The Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute (ASMI) is a public-private partnership between the State of Alaska and the Alaska seafood industry, established to promote economic development through the use of sustainable seafood resources. To enhance the value of Alaska seafood products, ASMI conducts various activities worldwide for consumers and industry stakeholders. For more information, please visit the official website and social media channels.

Official Website: https://japanese.wildalaskaseafood.com/

Instagram: @alaskaseafoodjapan

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ASMIJapan/