Research on meat resources in the Amami Islands
Nutritional Biochemistry and Feed Chemistry/Southern Kyushu and Nansei Islands Innovation Center
Ohtsuka Akira
- isen
- amagi
Background and objectives of activities
Adding value to Ryukyu wild boar meat on Tokunoshima: Hunting of a certain number of Ryukyu wild boar that inhabit the Nansei Islands is permitted, and the meat has been sold as food. The aim of this research is to discover the characteristics of Ryukyu wild boar meat and use this to differentiate and brand the meat.
Summary of Activities
In our research into the meat quality, we discovered that it contains a very high concentration of the anti-fatigue ingredient valerenine, and that the free amino acids in the meat, which are important for the flavor of the meat, can be increased through aging. These results have contributed greatly to raising the profile of Ryukyu wild boar meat and promoting its sales. We are currently working on research to clarify the biological significance of the characteristics of Ryukyu wild boar meat.
Expected Benefits
If we can use the increased profile of the Ryukyu wild boar to promote sales and increase profits, and use some of the profits to maintain the natural ecosystem of Tokunoshima, this could serve as a model for the construction of sustainable natural and social structures on islands that do not rely on external resources.