Product diversification is needed in frozen foods. This need is even greater now than it has been because of changes in and the maturing of society.In respect to This Katokichi's Sales Department and Product Development Department are creating products together because they are directly connected. Keeping in mind the comments and suggestions that sales personnel hear in the field, concerning formulating, processing, naming, packaging, etc., from all angles we develop ideal products. The birth of a new product is always the direct result of the customer's needs. This kind of flexible merchandise development is the reason we are able to present products that match the needs of the era.

The basic premise of frozen food technology is, of course, production technology. Katokichi has accented the importance of advancement in production technology. By making use of the most advanced food production machinery, and electronic control technology, we are able to faithfully re-produce the hand-made touch, which previously was only produced by human experience and instincts. For example, in the case of noodles, we have developed a device that has the same cutting technique as a well-skilled chef. In the case of croquettes, we have a series of processes that breads the croquettes in such a way as to duplicate those that are hand-made. Katokichi operates various factories for particular processes, some having the latest equipment for production automation, and others for imitating hand-made. Based on the individual product requirements, production is divided into different factories, which makes it uniform in product efficiency and quality. Over and above the finished product itself, we manufacture and maintain all necessary items for all levels of production, from bread crumbs to packaging materials. This kind of vertical integration and dedication to perfection is the heart of Katokichi.

Food plays a very important role in the health and well-being of all people. In other words, the quality of frozen food is the lifeline of Katokichi. Therefore, we have extremely strict in-house criteria for quality control. Monitoring of materials and products is done constantly, both prior to arrival at the factory, and in the factory, such as checking raw materials, progress checks at the factories, temperature checks of frozen foods, and random sample tests of products. At the delivery center, all finished products are subject to a complete set of quality analysis tests. In the retail location, we perform checks on products for sale. At every stage there is close scrutiny of the products to maintain strict controls and readiness. Another important job that the quality control section is responsible for is scientific analysis and close monitoring of taste. Through scientific analysis of nutrition we collect various data regarding the taste and characteristics of rice. As for noodles, we measure the texture of the product by the weight required to cut through the sample. The information gathered here is put into use when developing new products, and for production technology. In conclusion, Katokichi would like to not only be in the conventional frozen food business, but would also like to assist the customer in other fields, such as research and development of new products, re-construction of systems, new business development, etc. We will continue to strive for flexible development. We very much appreciate your interest and your support, and we look forward to doing business with your company. Thank you very much.