OIST Innovation is proud to announce that two OIST Accelerator startups — Strout and Tlaloc Blue — have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Kikuno Tsuyu (菊之露), one of Miyakojima's most storied awamori distilleries.
This collaboration represents a powerful convergence of traditional craft, cutting-edge biotechnology, and aquaculture innovation — united by a shared commitment to transforming a longstanding waste challenge into a new regional opportunity.
Kikuno Tsuyu has long faced a practical challenge common to awamori production: the distilling process generates a byproduct called kashijē (もろみ粕), a spent mash that is difficult to process and reuse at scale. Under this new partnership, Tlaloc Blue will collect the kashijē and apply its biological upcycling expertise — harnessing insects, earthworms, and microalgae — to transform the waste into nutrient-rich feed for mangrove crabs. Strout will then apply its advanced land-based aquaculture technology to raise those crabs using the upcycled feed.
The significance of this project extends well beyond waste reduction. Mangrove crabs are exceptionally difficult to farm and remain rare in the wild, positioning them as a premium delicacy in current markets. Successful domestication of mangrove crab aquaculture in Miyakojima could establish an entirely new local industry — one that is rooted in the island's existing resources and traditions, while opening doors to premium domestic and international markets.
This MOU is a milestone not only for the two startups, but for the OIST Accelerator's vision of building innovation that is locally grounded and globally relevant — turning Okinawa's unique challenges into models for circular, community-driven growth.
