The Kansai Natto Association was formed in 1954 by a group of volunteers from Kansai natto producers with the aim of increasing and expanding natto consumption in the region. In 1981, July 10th was designated "Natto Day" as a Kansai-region-specific commemorative day. This date was later re-established in 1997 by the National Natto Coalition Association, making it a national commemorative day.
Our association has continued to work toward the goal of increasing the added value of natto. While it is said that the Kansai region does not have a strong natto eating culture, natto has its roots in Kyoto and is a food deeply associated with the Kansai region. In recent years, natto has been attracting renewed attention as both a traditional Japanese food and a food that is good for maintaining health, and the custom of eating natto is gradually taking root in the Kansai region as well. Our association will continue to work toward contributing to the realization of a society of healthy longevity through natto.