MORIYAMA, May 24 — A Japanese farmers’ co-operative in Shiga prefecture is to export its pearl barley to Taiwan for the first time, aiming to capitalize its health benefits abroad.
JA Oumifuji is to ship 300 packages of prepackaged pearl barley to Taiwan in June. One package contains 300 grams of barley grown in Shiga prefecture.
Pearl barley has a chewy, satisfying texture and subtle nutty flavor, making it a perfect way to bulk up meals.
Many studies have suggested that increasing consumption of barley decreases the risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease.