Toyoshima Cutlassfish (Hiroshima): season, origin and where to buy

Official registration details (MAFF)

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

Characteristics

Toyoshima Tachiuo (largehead hairtail or Japanese cutlassfish) is highly rated by the market for its excellent freshness achieved by rigorously implemented freshness-keeping measures, and for its blemish-free appearance, achieved by pole-and-line fishing knowhow passed down through many generations of local fisherpeople.

Link with the production area

The waters off Toyoshima is an excellent fishing ground due to its variable currents that attract sand lances and other small fish. Toyoshima Tachiuo is shipped with minimum damage to its flawless appearance and minimum loss of freshness. This is achieved by applying traditional pole-and-line fishing methods to tachiuo fishing, and by rigorously implementing freshness-keeping measures including completing on the vessel the entire process of selection, covering the fish with ice, and bleeding.

Characteristics and link with the area: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries website (https://www.maff.go.jp/e/policies/intel/gi_act/register/s84.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.

We have not found a reliable online or furusato nozei listing yet. Ask local farm stands or the producer group.

FAQ

Cutlassfish (tachiuo) caught off Toyoshima Island in Toyohama, Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Using pole-and-line methods handed down among local fishers, and completing sorting, icing and bleeding on board, they ship blemish-free, very fresh fish that the market rates highly.

Toyoshima Cutlassfish is produced in Waters off Toyoshima, Toyohama Town, Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture.

We have not confirmed a reliable online or furusato nozei listing. Local farm stands or the producer group are your best bet.

Toyoshima Cutlassfish was registered as a Geographical Indication on September 9, 2019 (Registration No. 84). The registered producer group is Kure Toyoshima Fisheries Cooperative.