Washoku 101- 2010

Pedro: What are the advantages and/or disadvantages of being a tofu manufacturer in the U.S. as opposed to being in Japan?

Ms. Difrancia: It’s a much bigger challenge to be in the U.S. because tofu is an acquired taste and few people in the U.S. grow up with tofu. Another challenge is educating customers about tofu and not scaring them off by making them think that House Foods is trying push a healthy product and one with no taste.

Ms. Difrancia and Pedro discussed alternative options to this dilemma, such as incorporating a super-food like tofu into popular dishes that Americans love, and then slowly including it into bolder and even healthier dishes with tofu.

Pedro: What are the health advantages of replacing meat products with tofu?

Ms. Difrancia: Tofu is the only one that is plant based and has all good proteins. In addition, tofu has all eight of the essential amino acids that contribute to a healthy, well-balanced diet. But, like anything, it should be eaten with moderation.

Pedro’s thoughts: While taking a tour of the tofu-processing factory I was amazed at how precisely each step needs to be executed for the customer to receive the quality product that we are used to seeing in a supermarket refrigerator. It was especially exciting for me to witness the process of a food that I love, and to see first-hand the origins of the food I consume. I will forever appreciate the opportunity that I was given to visit House Foods and learn more about tofu’s nutritional value as a food and about it’s careful process as a product.

Tanner’s Thoughts: During the tour, we were immediately introduced to the meticulous processes to maintain the safety, freshness, and cleanliness of the product. Upon entering, we were asked to dress in lab coats, face masks and shoe covers, showing just how much care House Foods® places on keeping their products clean. We even stepped into a “Dry Shower” which was quite a unique experience. After the cleaning process, we were introduced to the factory. There were a plethora of machines, each assigned to a specific function. Everything was organized to a tee, which left a lasting impression on me. I was awed by how much care was placed in each individual process, making sure that their product was clean, fresh and delicious. I greatly appreciate the opportunity that the Japan Society and House Foods® has given us. I have a much broader understanding of how the product is made, and the respect for how much importance is placed in the quality of the tofu. 

By Pedro and Tanner.