Aomori Kuro Ninniku is a processed food product made from the large-sized cold-climate garlic variety known as "Fukuchi White," cultivated in Aomori Prefecture, Japan, and matured at high temperatures. It is registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) product.

Production Process and Raw Materials

The raw material of Aomori Kuro Ninniku is the large-sized garlic variety called "Fukuchi White," grown in Aomori Prefecture. This garlic is well-suited to the region’s cool climate. In the production of black garlic, it is essential to preserve the water content in the cloves while thoroughly drying the outer husk, clove skins, flower stems, and basal plates. Subsequently, the product is matured at high temperatures for a specific period. As a result of this maturation process, the garlic turns black and develops a sweet-sour flavor. The transportation standards for the product include maintaining a certain range of water content, minimum sugar content, and a low pH level.

History and Regional Significance

Garlic cultivation in Aomori Prefecture began around 1965 due to the region’s cool climate, which is suitable for the "Fukuchi White" variety. Today, Aomori Prefecture produces the highest quantity of garlic in Japan, supplying the majority of the country’s shipments. The development of Kuro Ninniku in the prefecture began in 2004, with research on production methods and quality improvement continuing from 2006, leading to mass production in the following year. In 2008, the Aomori Black Garlic Association (Aomori-ken Kuro Ninniku Kyokai) was established by producers and distributors.

Market and Recognition

Since the inception of its production, efforts have been made collaboratively between the public and private sectors to develop processing technologies, monitor product quality, and support sales and exports. To promote voluntary hygiene control, the World Black Garlic Association was established in 2018, and a Food Safety Certification System was introduced. Aomori Kuro Ninniku has been exported under the black garlic brand to 25 overseas countries. Currently, its market spans nationwide as well as in European, American, and Asian countries. In 2018, the product received the Excellence in Local Production for Consumption Award from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.