HB Tamrakar, Kathmandu, Khumaltar – A remarkable day in the annals of Nepal-Japan cooperation witnessed the grand inauguration of the Nepal-Japan Healthy Food Outlet, marking a visionary step towards public health and safe food consumption. The outlet, situated at the project office of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) near Civil Homes, Khumaltar Height, stands as a symbol of the shared commitment between Nepal and Japan for a healthier future.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was graciously led by Deputy Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City, Manjali Shakya Aastha, who emphasized during her speech, “Health is our foremost wealth. Initiatives like the Nepal-Japan Healthy Food project will lead to a long-term improvement in the life expectancy and overall health of the Nepali people.”
Nepal-Japan Healthy Food Program – A Blueprint for a Healthy Nation
This pilot project under JICA has been managed diligently by Sunita KC, the in-charge of the Nepal-Japan Healthy Food Program. The event saw the enthusiastic presence of the JICA team, local leaders, health experts, journalists, and community members. Visitors actively engaged by purchasing safe, pesticide-free, lab-tested food items such as vegetables, pulses, and fruits directly from the newly established outlet.
A special mention was made of HB Tamrakar, a prominent journalist and the President of Yes NEPAL News YNN, for his vital role in media coverage and public awareness. Project Manager Rajan Kumar Paudel expressed heartfelt appreciation, stating: “Having a conscientious and honest journalist like HB Tamrakar supporting our mission is a true blessing for this kind of public welfare initiative.”
Pesticide-Contaminated Food = A Looming Health Catastrophe
In-depth research conducted by JICA has revealed some deeply alarming realities about Nepal’s food safety. Agricultural products widely available in Nepalese markets—including vegetables, fruits, and cooking oil—are found to contain dangerously high levels of pesticides and harmful chemicals.
Here are key findings from JICA’s 3-year study (2019–2022):
• Popular cooking oils sold in major outlets like Bhatbhateni, Big Mart, and SalesBerry were found to contain uric acid levels between 46–56, compared to Japan’s safe threshold of 0.6.
• Medical experts in Japan have concluded that such oil is unfit even for animal consumption.
• Vegetables and fruits also showed extensive pesticide use, increasing risks of miscarriage, infertility, cancer, liver damage, stomach issues, and even mental health disorders.
Nepal-Japan Healthy Food Outlet – The Ultimate Solution
In response to these health threats, JICA has launched the Nepal-Japan Healthy Food Outlet under the NJHF (Nepal-Japan Healthy Food) brand. This store aims to supply:
✅ Pesticide-free, lab-tested vegetables, rice, pulses, and fruits
✅ Organic goods sourced from high-altitude Himalayan regions
✅ Domestically produced items with traceability systems
✅ Foods carefully curated to meet Japanese health standards
Importantly, this outlet is not profit-oriented. Prices are set based on actual cost from farmers and minimal transportation and operational charges—making healthy food affordable and accessible.
🇯🇵 Protecting Nepal’s Health with Japanese Standards
Project Manager Rajan Kumar Paudel stated:
“This initiative is not about making money. It’s about protecting lives. With the support of Nepali agricultural technicians and feedback from consumers, we aim to bring even more quality products—some sourced from Japan if needed—but mainly from organic-friendly regions around Kathmandu and Nepal’s highlands.”
Japanese representatives attending the event hailed this as “Nepal’s future in food revolution.”
Massive Public Enthusiasm
The ceremony drew a remarkable crowd—from local residents to scholars, farmers, youth leaders, and media personnel. The public’s excitement was evident, with many asking:
“When will such outlets open in our neighborhood too?”
Conclusion – No More Ignoring Our Health!
With the potential to transform Nepal’s agriculture, health system, and food market, the Nepal-Japan Healthy Food Outlet is far more than just a store—it is a center of awareness and a beacon of hope.
“Say NO to pesticide-contaminated foods!
Begin your journey toward a healthier life today!”
Let us remember—a healthy nation is not built through hospitals alone, but through safe food and informed citizens.
🖋️ Special Correspondent: HB Tamrakar
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