I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to all those affected by the Kumamoto earthquake in Reiwa 8.
Aftershocks and severe heat continue, but please prioritize the safety of the victims and those working in rescue and support activities, and take care of yourselves.
I sincerely pray for the swift recovery and reconstruction of the disaster-stricken areas, and for a return to peaceful daily life as soon as possible.

Japan is a country that experiences many natural disasters. Particularly from August to autumn, it is a season when damage from typhoons and heavy rains is likely to occur. This time, from the perspective of beekeeping businesses, we will introduce the appeal of honey, which can be useful during disasters, and points to consider when stockpiling it. Honey, which can be enjoyed on the dining table in everyday life, may become a strong preparation in times of need.

Points to Consider When Choosing Emergency Food and Disaster Food

Point 1: Something that is easy to carry.

Point 2Easy to cook items
We recommend items that can be eaten even if the lifeline is cut off.

Point 3Items that can be stored
Choosing items that can be stored at room temperature and have a long shelf life makes management easier.

Point 4 Familiar Foods
Having familiar flavors in a state of tension provides reassurance. Especially for small children, there is a possibility that they may not eat unfamiliar emergency food, so preparing familiar food can be a support during emergencies.

Point 5Nutritious items
Maintaining a balanced diet is important for the health of both the mind and body.

Reasons why honey is excellent as an emergency food and disaster food.

Reason 1: Can be stored long-term at room temperature
Honey has a low moisture content and high sugar level, creating an environment where bacteria that cause spoilage cannot thrive. It is a food that can maintain its quality if stored properly at room temperature, making it perfect for emergency food supplies. Manufacturers that sell honey generally set the shelf life of pure honey at 1 to 3 years, allowing it to be consumed safely over a long period.

Reason 2: It serves as an energy source
Honey is made of "monosaccharides" and does not need to be further broken down in the body, allowing it to be quickly absorbed as energy. It also helps in recovery from fatigue, making it perfect for nutritional replenishment during times of physical exhaustion.

Reason 3: Can be eaten immediately after opening
Even if the lifeline is cut off, honey can be eaten as is without heating, so it is hassle-free. It is recommended to prepare multiple stick-type honey that can be eaten anywhere.

Reason 4: Easy to combine with other stockpiled food
Even though it is emergency food, if it doesn't taste good, you won't feel like eating it. By combining it with crackers, bread, oatmeal, nuts, dried fruits, etc., it becomes less monotonous and easier to replenish energy.

Be aware of 'rolling stock' (daily stockpiling), which involves consuming regularly while replenishing.

Rolling stock refers to the method of purchasing food items in larger quantities, consuming them as their expiration dates approach, and then replenishing the stock accordingly. By regularly consuming and replenishing food, one can prevent items from expiring. Honey is a food that can be enjoyed in everyday life and is also easy to use in emergencies. By incorporating it into daily meals, it contributes to preparedness for unexpected situations.

The method of rolling stock is very simple. Let's repeat the following cycle.

▼ How to do rolling stock
① Purchase and store a larger quantity of food
② Gradually consume items with older expiration dates
③ Replenish what you have eaten and store again

Honey enriches daily life a little and is a reliable food source in times of need. Please consider incorporating it into your everyday meals while starting to stock it up without pressure. (Note: Do not give to infants under one year old.)