How our Asian Heritage has helped shape us.

In tribute to our ancestry, we celebrate our lives as Japanese descendants. April brings with it cherry blossoms, the beginning of the school year, and the start of the fiscal year in Japan.

May, on the other hand, is dedicated to observing our Asian Pacific Heritage. As we reflect on our upbringing, we are reminded of the invaluable lessons passed down from our mother and grandparents.

Frugality.

Never waste, be resourceful and respect what you catch. Our grandmother (Mama) and our grandfather (Papa), demonstrated these lessons in their daily lives. Mama, a seamstress for local schools, hospitals, and businesses,

saved scraps of fabric to create napkins, baby bibs, and other pieces of clothing. Papa, taught us lessons in repurposing by taking corks from wine bottles and turning them into fishing bobbers: these were later used in Hawaii at our yearly meet ups. Both influenced Amica and how we utilize every part of the animal, plant, and mushroom.

Respect the craft.

Perhaps because of our Japanese heritage, we are forever captivated by the time-honored traditions of artisans involved in knife making, swordsmithing, and many other artists and culinary experts throughout the country. Most notably we are inspired by Fujinuma Noboru, a bamboo artist and National Treasure of Japan. The designation is significant as it is a way for the Japanese government to recognize artisans as an Important Intangible Cultural Property. Noboru-san spends nearly six months to make a single basket. He is engrossed in his work while he hones, smooths, and prepares each strand of bamboo used to craft his amazing works of art.

When we started Amica, we knew our processes were a key factor to developing amazing products. Much like Noboru-san, spending time to understand the details of each step and purpose, can result in delicate flavors and aromas.

Pride & determination.

Even closer to home, is our dear mother. We recall the time when she was a clerk for the city. Then suddenly she had a business, or at least that is how we perceived it. Her story of beginning from nothing, to operating a world class business working with top brands and corporations is astounding. We are forever grateful for her determination in shaping our lives and instilling such great care in how we perceive the world and our ability to navigate it.

The influence of Japanese people, traditions and foods, has contributed to Amica, and serves as the inspiration for our Meal Enhancement line, using the nomenclature Furikake. This Japanese condiment compliments many different dishes, however, rice remains the most common.

We grew up with so many different flavors, and still use them today. Naturally, in establishing a stronger connection with our own animals, we developed a recipe for them, to share with you. So to bring in the new year, we honor our past and share it with you through Salmon and Quail Furikake. We know your animals will love it!