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Japan Airlines (JAL) and BioMush have announced to continue their successful collaboration in serving Nordic Umami by BioMush’s Soyless sauce in vegetarian meals on business class flights between Helsinki and Tokyo.

The Soyless sauce has received positive feedback from both passengers and cabin crew, with some suggesting it be introduced even into more dishes. In line with JAL’s commitment to health-conscious and eco-friendly options, the airline is also exploring ways to reduce salt in its meals, enhancing the in-flight dining experience. BioMush is proud to contribute to this journey towards promoting sustainability and challenging innovative in-flight dining options.

The Helsinki-Tokyo Route: A Cultural and Culinary Bridge

Since 2013, the Helsinki-Tokyo route has been a crucial link between Japan and Finland, with Helsinki serving as a gateway to Europe for many Japanese travellers. Nowadays Helsinki remains a key hub, bridging not only geography but also culture and culinary. 

“Working with a Finnish company like BioMush has been a rewarding experience, and they’ve exceeded our expectations. Northern Europe, particularly Finland, is a leader in sustainability and technology, and it has been interesting to learn how BioMush is creating umami from perished side streams” says Mr. Fukuda of Japan Airlines.

BioMush has also impressed JAL with its ability to combine traditional Japanese flavours like umami which has been created with innovative food technology. “BioMush has managed to create flavours deeply rooted in Japanese tradition while adding a contemporary touch. We are confident that BioMush will continue to enhance umami while staying true to Japanese culinary heritage” adds Mr. Fukuda. 

Activities to Promote Sustainability at Japan Airlines

At Japan Airlines sustainability and ESG-strategies are embedded in their top operations. Their key sustainability actions focus on reducing CO2 emissions and reduction of single-use plastic. The airline is reducing single-use plastics by using recyclable materials and certified, sustainable packaging for its in-flight meals.

To combat food waste, JAL introduced a “meal skip” option, allowing passengers to opt out of meals before their flights. This initiative reduces waste while giving passengers more control over their in-flight experience.

Looking Ahead

Both Japan Airlines and BioMush are excited to continue their partnership. This collaboration raises expectations for future in-flight meals, promising innovative, sustainable, and flavorful dining experiences for passengers.

Read more about the collaboration between Japan Airlines and BioMush here