Zenbird Editorial TeamNagano-based fruit and vegetable wholesaler Ohsawaya has secured official selection for Nagano Prefecture’s FY2026 Next-Generation Growth Industry Technology Development Support Project to convert unused local food resources into low-emission livestock feed using artificial intelligence. It replaces transport-heavy imported feed with upcycled regional alternatives, targetting full commercialisation by 2028.
There is an environmental footprint for long-distance feed transportation by reprocessing local food industry waste, such as vegetable processing by-products. Using deep learning data analysis with feed moisture content optimisation, Ohsawaya has formulated a bio-optimised feed designed to enhance cattle palatability while reducing greenhouse gas emissions from bovine belching.
The selection follows a multi-year research roadmap that began in FY2024 with foundational studies on drying technologies and palatability testing. In FY2025, Ohsawaya established a dedicated lab plant at Shinshu University to test multi-ingredient formulations, confirming improvements in feed performance and farm profitability. The current FY2026 phase focuses on refining deep learning algorithms to determine precise moisture levels that optimize feed consumption and emission reductions.
Looking ahead, Ohsawaya plans to launch a dedicated startup by 2028 to commercialise the upcycled feed alongside standardised technical specifications. The company will also introduce J-Credit sales derived from enteric emission reductions and roll out an AI-driven smart supply platform. Through these measures, Osawaya intends to complete a regional Green Transformation platform that connects local food producers, livestock farmers, financial institutions and academic research bodies across Nagano Prefecture.
[Reference] Ohsawaya Press Release (Japanese)
