Harimanada Co Ltd, located in the Harima Sea in the southwest of Hyogo Prefecture, has become the first Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP)- certified oyster producer in Japan with the certification of its processing plant.
According to the company, the Harima Sea offers a unique environment for growing oysters, with nutrient-rich waters from five rivers known as the “Harima Gosen” flowing into it, producing large populations of phytoplankton. This allows it to grow oysters in a year rather than the typical two to three years.
Oysters are harvested during the peak season from January to May and are frozen for consumption throughout the year. The main product the company produces is frozen oysters in the shell, with exports going to Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Taiwan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Hong Kong and other markets.
“Attaining BAP certification for the first time in the oyster industry in Japan is a significant milestone for our company. Building on our ISO 22000 certification and government designation as a flagship production area, we’re expanding globally to deliver responsible, delicious oysters to Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Europe. Our team remains committed to continuous improvement, quality and to advancing the oyster industry with your continued support,” Harimanada President and CEO Hiroyasu Nagara said.
