As environmental concerns and community well-being become more important, the sake industry is also evolving toward sustainability.
Sustainable sake refers to sake brewed with practices that minimize environmental impact and make the most of local resources.
In this article, we’ll explain what defines sustainable sake and introduce notable eco-friendly sake products available today.

What Makes Sake Sustainable?

Sustainable sake typically features the following initiatives

• Use of renewable energy: Reducing CO₂ emissions by switching to renewable energy sources during brewing.
• Byproduct reuse: Repurposing rice bran and sake lees into food, fertilizers, and cosmetics.
• Local resource utilization: Using locally grown rice and water to boost regional economies.
• Environmental conservation efforts: Supporting forest preservation and water source protection activities.

These practices ensure that sake production supports both the environment and local communities.

3 Must-Try Sustainable Sake Brands

1. SAKE HUNDRED “Niko”（弐光）

Sustainability
SAKE HUNDRED “Niko” reuses rice bran, typically discarded, from the production of their flagship “Byakko” sake. This innovative approach enhances natural sweetness while promoting resource efficiency.

Flavor Profile
Notes of fresh pear, strawberry smoothie, white flowers, and raw almonds, with a refreshing botanical twist.

Recommended Serving Temperature
Chilled (6–10°C)

Brand Name	Niko：弐光（にこう）
Brewery	SAKE HUNDRED（製造：白瀧酒造） https://jp.sake100.com/products/niko
Polishing Ratio	–
Alcohol Content	13.4%
Nihonshu-do	-18
Volume	720ml
Price	9,900 yen
Where to Buy	Available in-store only Store List：https://jp.sake100.com/pages/storelist

2. Fukuju Junmai Eco-Zero（福寿 純米酒 エコゼロ）

Sustainability
The world’s first carbon-neutral sake. Made from 100% Hyogo Prefecture rice and brewed with the famous “Miyamizu” water, achieving a net-zero CO₂ footprint.

Flavor Profile
Complex red fruit aromas, smooth mouthfeel, vibrant acidity, and a clean, sharp umami finish.

Recommended Serving Temperature
Chilled

Brand Name	Fukuju Junmai Eco-Zero （福寿 純米酒 エコゼロ）
Brewery	Kobe Shushinkan（神戸酒心館） https://www.shushinkan.co.jp/
Polishing Ratio	80%
Alcohol Content	15%
Nihonshu-do	+4
Volume	720ml
Price	1,855 yen
Where to Buy	Amazon

3. Kojima Sohonten “Toko with Green”（東光）

Sustainability
Yamagata’s Kojima Sohonten achieves carbon neutrality by using eco-friendly energy sources, including power generated from sake lees. Their “Toko with Green” highlights minimal processing to preserve rice’s natural qualities.

Flavor Profile
Rich umami from less-polished rice, offering a smooth and balanced taste.

Recommended Serving Temperature
Chilled or room temperature

Brand Name	TOKO（東光） with green
Brewery	https://www.sake-toko.co.jp/
Polishing Ratio	90%
Alcohol Content	15%
Nihonshu-do	-2
Volume	720ml
Price	1,540 yen
Where to Buy	Online Store https://www.sake-toko.com/products/toko-with-green

Conclusion

Sustainable sake is about more than protecting the environment — it also preserves traditions, strengthens local economies, and shapes the future of the sake industry.
Next time you choose a sake, consider not only its flavor but also its contribution to a better world.

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