A Japanese fast-food chain has announced plans to grow rice and vegetables on a farm 100 km (60 miles) from the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster since Chernobyl in 1986.
Yoshinoya Holdings, which sells “gyudon,” or sliced beef over rice, has formed a joint-venture with local farmers to grow onions, cabbage and rice for use in outlets across the country.[…]
The crops will be grown in Shirakawa, to the southwest of the plant, the company said. Yoshinoya said it would ensure that the vegetables were safe.“We will employ local people in the factory. We think this will lead to support for reconstruction,” Yoshinoya said in a statement.
Japan applies strict food monitoring and says that any products allowed on the market are safe. Despite these assurances, public fears have led to a drop in price for Fukushima produce and huge losses for farmers.
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