Discover the true value of domestically grown barley—Taiyo Foods' 70-year history paves the way to true inner beauty

Hello everyone, this is Miko from Kokako Shoten.

Today, I would like to tell you about Taiyo Foods' barley products , which have been added to our store's lineup since this month, and why we decided to recommend them to you, as well as the background and features of the products.

Well then, let's get started!

My fateful encounter with Tomugi

Actually, speaking of adlay, when I was on a business trip to Shimokawa Town in Hokkaido recently, I was talking with Mr. Yamada (who has amazing skin!) who runs the botanical skincare brand SORRY KOUBOU.

It all started when I heard this story: "Actually, an acquaintance of mine told me, 'This is effective against warts,' so I started drinking Job's Barley Tea, and the warts on my neck really did disappear!"

What! It removes warts!!! That's unbelievable! LOL

I've always had small bumps on my neck (I looked it up later and found out there's even a proper medical condition called senile warts! And it's caused by aging! lol), and I'm prone to developing syringomas and milia, and when I was younger I suffered from acne and atopic dermatitis. On top of that, eight years ago I had an endoscopy as part of a health checkup and had three colon polyps removed. On top of that, I had stomach ulcers three times during my busy work years in my 20s and 30s, and I'm always told when I have an endoscopy that I have scars at the bottom of my stomach, so as a self-proclaimed "wart person," this was an eye-opener for me.

This is it! I have to drink it every day! I thought, and when I got home I immediately looked it up online, and came across Taiyo Foods' barley products, which I thought had the longest history, were made in Japan with a focus on quality, and even had the barley germinated to stimulate its growth, so I decided to order a bunch and give it a try.

I drink adlay tea with lunch, and add a packet of adlay enzymes to my special amazake (homemade brown rice amazake with four types of turmeric, long pepper, and collagen) after lunch and dinner, for a total of two packets a day. I also add roasted grains to my homemade soy milk yogurt after Pilates (they're crunchy, fragrant, and delicious!), and if I get hungry after dinner, I snack on some adlay and brown rice crackers... This has become my daily routine recently. Since then, the bumps on my neck have disappeared, then two... What's more, my skin has also improved greatly, and I feel like my body is becoming more translucent from the inside out.

Why was it so effective? I contacted Taiyo Foods and was able to make an appointment with the president, who happened to be in Tokyo on a business trip, and we met in person.

Today, I would like to take the time to share with you the story I heard then.

The history of Job's Wheat and why it has been loved since ancient times

Since ancient times, Job's Wheat has been called the "King of Grains" and the "Warp Remedy," and due to its high nutritional value, it has been prized as a grain that supports beauty and health. Its history is very old, and in the Chinese classic medical book "Shennong Bencao Jing," written around the 2nd or 3rd century, it is said that "job's wheat has no side effects even if eaten every day, and it keeps the body in good health and is effective in promoting longevity and immortality."

Furthermore, in the Edo period, Kaibara Ekiken recorded the folk remedies used among the common people in his "Yamato Honsho" (1708), which states that Job's Wheat can be used to remove warts, improve skin condition, and increase breast milk production. It is also said to be effective against hypertension, arthritis, rheumatism, and painful paralysis.

Although barley has so many beneficial effects, it is actually a grain of the grass family, a relative of rice, and therefore gluten-free. In Japan, apart from its medicinal uses, it is mostly enjoyed as tea, but in other Asian countries such as Taiwan and Hong Kong, it is also a popular ingredient often eaten in sweet desserts and medicinal cuisine, and there is actually a reason for this.

The role of "Yokuinin" in traditional Chinese medicine

"Yokuinin," made by removing the outer husk from Job's tears and polishing them, is still used in traditional Chinese medicine today and has long supported people's lives as a way to keep skin smooth. When I lived in Taiwan, I always found "Yokuinin" as a topping on sweet desserts sold at street stalls, and I often chose it to eat. It is also widely used in medicinal cuisine and is loved throughout Asia.

Modern science proves the nutritional value of buckwheat

The power of each grain goes beyond simple nutrition. Job's barley contains more protein than brown rice, amino acids necessary for the body, and a balanced amount of fatty acids.

In summary, it is rich in nutrients such as:

• High-quality protein : Contains a balanced amount of essential amino acids
• Balanced amino acids : Contains all the ingredients necessary for beautiful skin
• B vitamins that help metabolism : Supports energy metabolism
• Dietary fiber : Improves intestinal environment
• Coixenolide : An active ingredient unique to Job's tears that has tumor-suppressing properties
• Polyphenols : Antioxidant and anti-aging

The reason why Job's Barley is said to be a miracle cure for warts is that its unique component, coixenolide, has been shown to have tumor-suppressing properties . It is also effective not only on warts but also on age spots and freckles, and is said to be equally effective on tumors (polyps, dysplastic tumors, etc.) that form internally, not just on warts that are visible on the surface.

Job's tears has the ability to correct skin abnormalities and remove blemishes, as proven in all Chinese medical literature.

These rich blessings from nature work on the inside of your body, gently supporting clear skin, smooth circulation, and healthy daily life.

1. Makes skin glow

Job's tears is rich in protein, lipids, vitamins, and minerals, and its protein in particular is rich in amino acids such as glutamic acid, leucine, tyrosine, and valine, which help boost skin metabolism. This metabolism slows down with age, but Job's tears' power works to rapidly push healthy skin cells upward, peeling off dead skin cells and leaving skin moisturized.

2. For warts, acne, corns, and atopic dermatitis

Job's tears has long been known for removing warts and improving skin condition. These effects were reportedly discovered by a scholar named Kaibara Ekiken during the Edo period, and throughout Job's tears' long history, no side effects have been reported, proving its effectiveness in treating many skin problems without any logical explanation.

3. For stomach and intestinal polyps

Eating Job's Tears can remove polyps that have formed in the stomach or intestines. It is believed that just as warts that have formed outside the body can be removed, polyps that have formed inside the body can also be removed. Job's Tears has the ability to correct skin abnormalities and remove any growths that may be present. It may seem strange that this can be achieved by simply eating Job's Tears, but the effectiveness of Job's Tears (Yokuinin) has been proven in various literature.

4. For swelling, knee pain, and rheumatism

In traditional Chinese medicine, Job's Tears is called Yokuinin and is used to reduce swelling and treat muscle and joint pain and numbness. The pain is thought to be caused by a decline in gastrointestinal function that impairs water metabolism, resulting in excess water retention in the body, or by a decline in kidney function that weakens the body's ability to excrete excess water. Job's Tears activates gastrointestinal and kidney function, normalizing the circulation of water within the body and helping to relieve these symptoms.

5. Improves kidney function and acts as a diuretic

Diuretic effect: The kidneys keep the blood clean by excreting waste products from the blood together with urine. If the kidneys are not functioning properly, toxins will accumulate, causing symptoms such as swelling, dry mouth, fatigue, and elevated blood pressure. Job's tears have a strong diuretic effect, which activates the kidneys and improves water metabolism.

Why domestic barley is so popular now: The crucial difference between domestic and imported barley

Currently, most of the adlay sold on the market is imported from overseas (Thailand, China, Vietnam, India, etc.) Meanwhile, Japan's domestic self-sufficiency rate is only 18%, and most of it is used in medicines and high-quality tea.

By the way, in Taiwan, where I used to live, although the consumption is far greater than in Japan, the domestic supply-demand ratio is less than 5%, and the majority, over 90%, is currently dependent on Thailand. In particular, in Taiwan, the trick is that simply by refining imported adlay can be labeled as made in Taiwan, so I think that the local people currently consume it without any doubt as if it is made in Taiwan.

The special value of domestically produced barley

While overseas-produced adlay is certainly cheaper, mass production raises concerns about pesticide residues (especially post-harvest issues) and inconsistent quality. The adlay products we are introducing here from Taiyo Foods are 100% Japanese-made . They primarily use adlay grown in the pure waters and fertile soil at the foot of the Tateyama mountain range in Toyama Prefecture.

The highest quality barley is grown carefully with minimal use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers, and is completely different from imported barley in terms of grain size, aroma, and ingredient content.The texture and flavor are also excellent, and there is a definite difference that allows you to eat it every day with peace of mind.

Safe from a traditional Chinese medicine perspective

In traditional Chinese medicine, Job's Wheat is considered a food that cools the body (slight cold), but Japanese varieties, like rice, are said to be neither cold nor warm, but rather neutral (moderate). This is thought to be due to regional differences in Job's Wheat cultivation. Furthermore, it has been reported that Job's Wheat tea produced in Japan, with husks and germinated, significantly improves sensitivity to cold.

In other words, unlike barley grown in hot countries, domestically grown barley does not cool the body, so it can be consumed safely by anyone .

Taiyo Foods' 70-year history proves the true power of Job's tears

Taiyo Foods was founded in 1948 and is a pioneering company of adlay with a history of over 70 years . Founder Yasuo Sasaoka has continued to create products using domestic adlay, based on his philosophy of "preserving the blessings of nature and using them to contribute to people's health."

A pioneer who popularized Job's Wheat as a health food

Taiyo Foods was a pioneer in popularizing Job's Wheat as a health food, and furthermore, it established its own unique Job's Wheat fermentation technology by utilizing the power of koji mold, which is unique to Japan . Even now, the company maintains high quality standards that conform to medicinal standards, and has built up a strong brand reputation that has earned it the reputation that "When it comes to Japanese Job's Wheat, Taiyo Foods is the name to go for."

It all began in 1957 when the founder successfully developed "Neo Papain Enzyme," which was renamed "Job's Tears Enzyme" in 1974. Since then, the company has continued to improve the quality of its ingredients and technology, such as using organic Job's Tears grown in-house and domestically producing fruit enzymes, and has reached its current form after more than 60 years of trial and error.

Organic barley fields covering over 40,000m²

Currently, we cultivate over 40,000 square meters of organic barley in our fields in Toyama, listening to the changing voices of the earth as the seasons change, and growing each grain with care. This passion is carried on by the third generation. With the founder's beliefs in mind, we continue to research and improve our products to address the new health challenges faced by modern people.

With over 70 years of research and development, Taiyo Foods develops products that make the most of the power of job's barley.

Among them, Kokako Shoten offers a lineup of five products, each with a different approach to supporting your beauty and health.

1. Job's Barley Enzyme—The Ultimate Inner Beauty Produced by Fermentation Technology

Taiyo Foods' signature product, Job's Barley Enzyme , is not just a powder. Since its launch in 1974, it has undergone numerous improvements and evolved into a modern, easily absorbed blend, making it a long-selling product.

Taiyo Foods' proprietary technology for slowly fermenting and aging domestic barley is a masterpiece made possible by a unique manufacturing process that maximizes the power of enzymes.

A skillful blend of four types of adlay

Organic hulled barley, organic young leaves, fermented barley, and coix seed are expertly blended to support your inner beauty from all angles. This unique blending technology promises the following benefits:

• Breaks down nutrients into a form that is easily digested and absorbed
• Efficiently take in coixenolides, polyphenols, and minerals
• Improves the intestinal environment, contributing to beautiful skin, detoxification, and improved physical condition

Synergistic effect of lactic acid bacteria FK-23 and oligosaccharides

Of particular note is the combination of lactic acid bacteria FK-23 and oligosaccharides .

Lactic acid bacteria FK-23 is a human-derived lactic acid bacteria strain developed in Japan, and is a "sterilized lactic acid bacteria" that has been heat-treated. Because it is not alive, the bacterial components can act directly on intestinal immune cells. This is why:

• It is delivered stably without being destroyed by stomach acid or heat.
• Reliably stimulates the immune system and boosts defenses
• It is expected to have a stronger effect than live bacteria.

Furthermore, FK-23 has been granted five patents and its effectiveness has been scientifically proven.

Oligosaccharides serve as food for beneficial bacteria and improve the intestinal environment, allowing the active ingredients in FK-23 to smoothly reach immune cells and exert their powerful activating effects. In other words, "FK-23 x oligosaccharides" = maximized immune support .

Fermented enzymes from over 40 kinds of domestic fruits

Furthermore, "Jatomugi Enzyme" contains fruit enzymes that have been naturally fermented for over two years using over 40 kinds of domestically grown fruits . This allows for:

• Digestive absorption support : Breaks down proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates to efficiently deliver nutrients
• Metabolic support : Supplements the function of enzymes in the body, promoting fatigue recovery and detoxification
• Antioxidant effect : Fruit-derived polyphenols suppress active oxygen and prevent aging and lifestyle-related diseases.

Each packet contains 10 billion lactic acid bacteria FK-23, making it a true "edible beauty serum" that will awaken your natural translucence.

A Beauty Habit to Cleanse from Within! Job’s Tears Enzyme 150g (2.5g × 60 sachets)

2. Domestically Grown Organic Adlay Tea—Make Daily Hydration a Beauty Hatomugi (Jato Barley) Hatomugi Tea

The next product I would like to recommend after barley enzymes is "Domestically Grown Organic Barley Tea with Germination Activation."

Since ancient times, Job's Wheat has been known as the "master of wart removal" and has been loved by people who wish to maintain beauty and health. Now you can easily incorporate Job's Wheat into your daily hydration regimen.

The miracle of 1%—100% rare domestic organic barley

Only 18% of all adlay grown in Japan is organic, and of that , less than 1% is certified organic by the JAS standard, making it extremely rare. Taiyo Foods' "Domestic Germination Active Organic Adlay Tea" is made using 100% of this precious domestic organic adlay.

The land of Toyama is blessed with clean air, water, and fertile soil, and we have packed every ounce of this product with the vitality of rice that has been nurtured vigorously by the power of nature alone, without relying on pesticides or chemical fertilizers.

Taiyo Foods' unique "germination activation method"

Added to this is Taiyo Foods' unique "germination activation method," which seals in the seeds at their most powerful moment just before they sprout, and then expert roasting techniques elevate it to a fragrant, clear flavor.

This tea is made with 50% domestic organic barley and 50% domestic organic barley that has been activated to the point of germination.These two types are roasted using a unique method to create a fragrant, flavorful tea.

7 reasons why it's easy to continue every day

1. 100% rare domestic organic adlay from the land of Toyama : Only carefully selected organic adlay grown in pure water and fertile soil
2. Taiyo Foods' unique germination activation method : A unique technology that focuses on the power of seeds just before they sprout
3. Artisanal roasting produces a fragrant, clear flavor : suppresses impurities and combines the gentle sweetness of grains with a deep, rich flavor
4. Caffeine-free and low in tannins : Safe for use before bed, children, and the elderly
5. Gluten-free : Job's barley is a grass family and does not contain gluten like wheat or barley.
6. Supports a light, everyday life : Supports a lifestyle that regulates circulation as a daily hydration supplement
7. Enjoy it in a variety of ways : hot, iced, cold brew, and as a barley latte or in a variety of dishes.

This cup embodies the power of the Japanese earth, Taiyo Foods' 60+ years of research, and sincere commitment to organic farming. A cup of this miraculous barley tea will soon become a habit that nurtures clear skin and a refreshed body and mind.

Drinkable “Wart-Removing Expert”! Caffeine-Free Beauty Routine with Japanese Organic Germinated Active Job’s Tears Tea 90g (3g × 30 bags)

3. Domestically Grown Barley for Rice Cookers (Value Pack) – Start Your Daily Skincare Habits at the Table

For those who don't want to do anything special but still want to be conscious of their beauty and health through their daily meals, we recommend domestically produced barley rice for rice cookers .

Easy to make with no preparation required

Conventional adlay requires soaking and pre-boiling, which can make it difficult to continue, but Taiyo Foods' adlay for rice cooking is polished and finely ground to roughly the same size as rice, so you can follow the same steps as for white rice, from washing to cooking .

Simply add about 20g (2 tablespoons) to 1-2 cups of rice, fill your rice cooker with water up to the line, add another 30cc (2 tablespoons) of water, and cook as usual. This will transform your everyday rice into a special bowl that incorporates the power of Job's Barley .

The nutritional value of the "king of grains"

Compared to white rice, Job's Barley contains a good balance of high-quality protein and amino acids, and is characterized by its gentle sweetness and fragrant flavor derived from grains. It contains abundant protein, amino acids, B vitamins, and dietary fiber, and its nutritional balance is such that it is called the "king of grains."

It's also gluten-free, making it the perfect skincare routine that the whole family can continue with peace of mind.

Cook with Rice for Beauty Care! Japanese Job’s Tears for Rice Cooker (Value Pack) 450g No Preparation Needed / 100% Japan-Sourced / Gluten-Free

4. Roasted Job's Barley Grains - Individually wrapped and always fragrant and fresh!

The only ingredient is Job's Barley. It's free of oil, salt, sugar, and additives, allowing you to directly experience the power of the ingredients for a "pure deliciousness." Taiyo Foods' unique roasting technology allows you to enjoy a soft roasted aroma the moment you open the bag, as well as a satisfying "crunchy" texture with every bite.

The individually wrapped (7g x 16 packets) make it easy to carry, so you can easily take care of your inner skin at work or on the go. Each packet is low in calories, at approximately 35.7kcal, making it useful for calorie control.

Various ways to enjoy

These products can be arranged in a variety of ways:

• As is : Enjoy with coffee or tea
• For yogurt or cereal : Add texture as a topping
• In salads and soups : Add a savory touch instead of croutons
• For a Japanese sweets look : Combine with soybean flour and brown sugar syrup

Crispy, Nutty & Delicious! Japanese Roasted Job’s Tears Grains 112g (7g × 16 sachets) 100% Japan-Sourced / Additive-Free / Gluten-Free

5. Job's Wheat & Organic Brown Rice Pon Senbei—A Guilt-Free Healthy Snack

This healthy snack is made using only barley and organic brown rice from Toyama Prefecture, as well as natural salt, and is completely free of preservatives, colorings, flavorings, and oils and fats. It is free of 28 specified allergens and is gluten-free, making it safe for both children and adults to enjoy.

Each bag contains 26 pieces and contains approximately 185.5 kcal, while one serving (5 pieces) contains approximately 35.7 kcal, making it a healthy snack that you can enjoy without feeling guilty.

I also find it useful as a quick snack to have when I'm feeling a little hungry.

Guilt-Free Snack for Beauty & Health! Job’s Tears & Organic Brown Rice Popped Senbei with Natural Salt – 26 Pieces 100% Japan-Sourced / Additive-Free / Gluten-Free

Summary: True inner beauty, guided by 70 years of research

While imported barley is the norm, Taiyo Foods has been protecting the value of domestically produced barley for over 70 years . Its reliable quality and unique fermentation and enzyme technology make it a perfect product for anyone seeking health and beauty.

We hope that people overseas will learn about these wonderful Japanese adlay products and that this food culture will continue uninterrupted into the future.

3 steps you can start today

1. Authentic inner beauty care with Job's barley enzymes
2. A natural beauty habit that starts with your daily meals using rice-cooking barley
3. Supporting the health of the whole family with domestically produced germinating barley tea
4. Take a break with a guilt-free, healthy snack of roasted grains and pon crackers

Beauty is not just temporary skincare or outer appearance.

Truly radiant people have a natural "health" that comes from within. This is greatly influenced by what you eat every day. This is because your skin is a part of your body, and everything in it is made up of what you eat.

Why not join me in starting a "beauty routine that makes you beautiful from the inside out" with the Job's Barley products that Taiyo Foods has built over its 70-year history?

Please try out true inner beauty, which starts with your daily habits.