Odate Tonburi (Akita): season, origin and where to buy

Seasonal calendar

The new season's product comes out in October.

Timing shifts with the weather and conditions in each region.

Official registration details (MAFF)

The registered description as published by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

Characteristics

Odate Tonburi are processed mature seeds of kochia scoparia. They are granular with a diameter of 1-2mm. Odate Tonburi has been called as “land caviar” because the texture is similar to that of caviar.

Link with the production area

The cultivation of Kochia Seeds has been conducted since the Edo Period(1603-1867), and the production method has been inherited since. Surrounded by mountains, the production area has windless condition and abundance of spring water, which suit well for harvesting and processing Odate Tonburi.

Characteristics and link with the area: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries website (https://www.maff.go.jp/e/policies/intel/gi_act/register/s32.html)

Where to buy

As a rule, only products that meet the registered standard may use a GI name (with exceptions such as prior use). Check for the GI mark and the place of origin to tell it apart from ordinary products with similar names.

Find on furusato nozei (opens in a new tab)Find online (opens in a new tab)

These links go to Japanese-language shops; check whether they ship overseas.

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FAQ

Odate Tonburi is made in Odate City, Akita Prefecture, by processing the seeds of the kochia plant. The grains are 1 to 2 mm across and nearly flavorless, but their popping, fish-roe-like texture has earned them the nickname “field caviar.” It is an Akita specialty said to have been eaten since the Edo period.

Odate Tonburi is produced in Odate City, Akita Prefecture.

Odate Tonburi is in season (harvested or shipped) in Oct. The new season's product comes out in October.

Look for it via furusato nozei (hometown tax donation) and online shops. Check the GI mark and the place of origin before you buy.

Odate Tonburi was registered as a Geographical Indication on May 26, 2017 (Registration No. 32). The registered producer group is Akita Kita Agricultural Cooperative.