Japanese vending machine sells bear meat from local hunters

13 Sept 19:49 Key points summarised by AI

A remote Japanese town, Semboku, has launched a unique vending machine offering wild Asian black bear meat, sourced from local hunters.
This novel initiative aims to promote the town and allow tourists to purchase a rare local delicacy, as bear meat is uncommon outside the region.
Hunting the bears also serves as a critical form of animal control, addressing the increasing problem of bears venturing into populated areas due to food shortages, which poses a danger to residents.
Each 250-gram pack of bear meat costs 2,200 yen ($16.75), with sales averaging 7-10 packs weekly, though supply is limited by hunting restrictions and seasonal availability.

Holy basil registration will not restrict native varieties - CPRAM

Today 12:16 Key points summarised by AI

CPRAM registered four *newly developed* holy basil strains (Kaew Churee 01-04) for use in its ready-made food division, not to commercialize seeds or restrict existing varieties.
The company assures that registration *does not impact* the cultivation, sale, or use of over 300 native holy basil strains by farmers and vendors.
These registered strains are a result of joint research with Kasetsart University, developed for improved quality and yield, and are *distinct from* the native varieties widely grown in Thailand.
CPRAM emphasizes that developing new plant varieties aims to enhance agricultural competitiveness and *will not lead to the extinction* of native basil or force farmers to adopt new strains.