Satellite Data Used to Boost Cabbage Sales in Japan

Tokyo, Aug. 24 (Jiji Press)–An experimental project started in Japan on Monday to improve cabbage sales by predicting future supplies and prices using satellite data. Under the project, major advertising firm Dentsu Inc., the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, or JAXA, and a local member of the Japan Agricultural Cooperatives will promote cabbage produced in the village of Tsumagoi, Gunma Prefecture, eastern Japan. They plan to evaluate the project’s effectiveness and explore the possibility of applying the approach to other crops and regions in the future. When forecasts indicate a period of abundant supply, distribution channels will be expanded. During times of low supply, advertising efforts will be scaled back to help stabilize prices and minimize food waste. Producers usually rely on field inspections to monitor cabbage growth. The new initiative, however, will use satellite data on cabbage color and size to forecast shipment volumes eight weeks in advance. Starting Monday, food maker Ajinomoto Co. displayed its “Cook Do” seasoning products alongside Tsumagoi cabbage at supermarket operator Tokyu Store Corp.’s Sangenjaya outlet in Tokyo’s Setagaya Ward. Based on future supply forecasts, cabbage-based recipes will be promoted at around 50 outlets. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]