Eel farms using new tech to boost harvests of Japan's summer delicacyーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS
NHK WORLD-JAPAN
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Video Summary
In Japan, the price of grilled eel has decreased for the first time in five years due to a successful catch of glass eels. Despite this reduction in procurement costs, many restaurant owners are unable to lower menu prices because of rising expenses in labor, utilities, and other raw materials.
To improve efficiency and support conservation efforts, some farmers are utilizing soy isoflavones in feed to encourage eels to develop as females. Female eels grow larger and have more tender meat, allowing for increased yield from a single glass eel and helping to manage the supply of this endangered species.
Short Highlights
- Eel prices dropped for the first time in five years due to a strong catch of glass eels.
- Retailers report a 10-20% price reduction for consumers.
- Farmers are using soy isoflavones to produce more female eels, which grow larger and have more tender meat.
- Restaurant owners struggle to lower menu prices due to rising costs in labor and utilities.
Key Details
Market Price Trends [00:00]
- Eel prices have decreased this year despite general inflation.
- A successful catch of glass eels has lowered procurement costs for both domestic and imported supplies.
Prices have been climbing steadily for the past few years.
Retail Impact [00:52]
- Supermarkets report that eel packs are 10 to 20% cheaper than in average years.
- Sales volume has increased by over 150% compared to the previous year.
We have expanded the eel section, and we've sold over 150% more than last year.
Farming Innovation [02:02]
- Farmers are adding soy isoflavones to feed to influence the sex of the eels.
- This process increases the percentage of female eels from less than 10% to over 95%.
By mixing the powder with their feed, we induce the eels to grow into females.
Sustainability and Yield [02:34]
- Female eels are preferred for their larger size and more tender meat.
- This technology helps conserve resources by maximizing the yield from each glass eel.
Raising eels to grow into females means that one glass eel can eventually provide two entire meals.
Restaurant Challenges [03:08]
- Despite lower eel costs, restaurant owners face rising expenses in other areas.
- Increased costs for labor, utilities, and condiments offset the savings on eel.
Almost all expenses, other than eel, are rising significantly. And this is canceling out the profit.
