HOME > Yamasa soy factory visit > Fermentation and aging
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Moromi continues to change in the tank for six months. During this period, enzymes, yeast, and microorganisms such as lactic acid bacilli, produced from Yamasa Koji, work actively in the tank. Decomposition of ingredients during fermentation process makes Moromi tasty by producing various important components for soy sauce, which are flavor, color, and aroma. Experts at the factory stir Moromi with fresh air in order to create favorable environment for microorganisms. |
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It takes as long as six months !  Moromi aged 3 months(left). Matured Moromi(right). |
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Yes, microorganisms keep working in the tank for a long period of six months. Flavor, color and aroma of soy sauce are generated and improved slowly during this time. This is called aging. Temperature and humidity are important factors to produce good soy sauce during the process of aging. |
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Soy sauce is very sensitive to its environment, isn't it ? |
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Why is Choshi good for soy sauce production ? |
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Choshi has become one of the major locations for soy sauce production in Japan because its climate is suitable for the production of soy sauce. Because Choshi sticks out into the Pacific Ocean as well as a cold current and a warm current meet in the water off Choshi, it is cool in summer, warm in winter, and humid throughout a year. This climate helps activate microorganisms. In addition to the climate conditions, its location was also a reason for Choshi to become a main producer of soy sauce. In the old days, soy sauce was transported to Edo (now Tokyo) from Choshi via Tone River by ship, which then carried back soybeans and wheat harvested in the Kanto Plain. Such transportation also contributed to the development of soy sauce production in Choshi.
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