The only sake brewery in the world producing sake that is both organic and carbon-neutral*
November 7, 2024 (Kobe, Japan) — KOBE SHU-SHIN-KAN BREWERIES, LTD., the maker of the sake brand “Fukuju”, is pleased to announce it has obtained Organic JAS Certification for the production of organic sake. This milestone marks a significant step toward realizing a “society in harmony with nature,” a key objective of the company’s green initiative, “Sustainability Journey.”
Since its establishment, the brewery has been dedicated to its long-standing sake brewing tradition, relying on nature’s blessings, such as the legendary water source “Miyamizu” and the renowned sake rice variety “Yamada-Nishiki.” However, in response to global warming affecting sake rice quality and yield, the company has shifted its focus to sustainable sake brewing. As part of this transition, it has set new standards for organic sake production and obtained Organic JAS Certification from the ORGANIC CERTIFICATION CENTER, the local accredited entity.
Fukuju Brewery strictly adhered to the required brewing and management procedures to obtain this certification. The company achieved high-quality organic sake production by ingeniously utilizing existing equipment rather than installing a dedicated organic rice line. It developed a system to prevent contamination during the rice-washing and koji-making stages, meeting the most rigorous standards. The result is a reliable organic sake designed to appeal to health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.
In 2022, the brewery transitioned to being 100% powered by renewable energy and achieved net-zero emissions in its brewing process, contributing to a sustainable society.
Fukuju’s key green initiatives include: obtaining Organic JAS Certification to promote sustainable agriculture; achieving net-zero CO2 emissions in the brewing process to reduce environmental impact; using locally grown rice to support local farmers and cut CO2 emissions from transportation; and promoting recycling and circular economy principles with products like Kobe Harvest fertilizer to build a sustainable society.
“As our 300th anniversary in 2051 approaches, we remain committed to high-quality production and environmental responsibility. We look forward to continuing our journey ‘brewing the future with our valued fans’”, said Takenosuke Yasufuku, President of KOBE SHU-SHIN-KAN BREWERIES, LTD.
*Carbon-neutral for Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions.
About Fukuju Brewery
Founded in 1751 in the Mikage area of Kobe, Japan, Fukuju Brewery has a centuries-long tradition of handcrafting sake, and is dedicated to “brewing delicious sake without environmental impact.” Fukuju sake has garnered recognition in both national and international competitions, including the Kura Master, International Wine Challenge (IWC), and Annual Japan Sake Awards. Additionally, Fukuju Junmai Ginjo has been featured at Nobel Prize official events, highlighting its distinguished reputation in the sake industry. Fukuju Brewery has also been honored with environment-related awards such as Japan’s EcoPro Award and the U.K.’s Drinks Business “Green Awards,” reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility.
