Herbal extract from hibiscus produced in Miyako gains popularity

Herbal extract from hibiscus produced in Miyako gains popularity

Herbal extract made from hibiscus from Miyako.


May 4, 2013 Ryukyu Shimpo

Sales are increasing of a pure herbal extract made from hibiscus grown on Miyako Island. Since last May, the Naha-based Gradir Co., which sells preserved flowers, has sold the herb extract and have shipped about 10,000 bottles in just under a year. It has grown to become Gradir’s main product, accounting for 60 percent of the company’s sales. Juice can be made by adding 10 parts of water to one part of essence. Cocktail recipes to go with awamori and beer have also been created.

A 120-milliliter bottle of extract sells for 1,050 yen at hotels and wedding centers in Okinawa. Sales at hotels are going well and the product is attracting positive comments. It was the first product for them to develop other than preserved flowers. Company president, Rieko Tajima, said, “We have succeeded in creating a truly original product.”

Manabu Oshiro, advisor for the Okinawa Chapter of Hotel Bar Men’s Association, Japan, came up with the recipe for the original cocktails. Tajima said, “We are keen to promote Okinawa by making 100 percent locally produced items. We would like to make memorable products for people who visit Okinawa.” The company plans to sell a sparkling variety of awamori by summer. They will strive to develop new products and to further strengthen their brand image. For more information call 098 (869) 1175.

(English translation by T&CT, Megumi Chibana and Mark Ealey)

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