Japan Value: spotlight on sustainable companies

In a recent insight, Nikko Asset Management is looking at social issues in Japan, how they are addressed by sustainable companies and how they are contributing towards improving the physical and mental well-being of individuals.

For providing a richer eating experience and better nutrition, Japanes companies were turning to plant-based foods, explains Nikko’s Chief Portfolio Manager, Shigeru Aoyagi. “Increasing awareness towards sustainability and the environment is one reason why focus has turned to plant-based proteins, which offer both an alternative to meat and a way to reduce methane emissions,” says Aoyagi.

He names the Ajinomoto Group as an example. “The company has played a significant role in providing plant-based protein to consumers around the world. The company’s food seasonings introduced to consumers “umami”, which can be translated as “savoury” and described as the fifth taste along with sour, sweet, bitter and salty. Seasonings with umami add a meaty richness to plant-based protein dishes and have helped improve the eating experience and nutritional balance of many consumers for whom meat is a luxury. Due to such contributions to society, the company, in our view, represents the “S” (social) aspect of ESG principles.”

Read more at Emea.nikkoam.com.