U.S. Identity Preserved crops gain recognition in South Korean restaurants

In South Korea, U.S. Identity Preserved crops are finding the spotlight, earning recognition alongside a respected culinary honor. 

That recognition began when Jin Yoon of Jinwha Foods, a verified user of the U.S. Identity Preserved brandmark, contacted U.S. Identity Preserved Alliance staff with an idea from a customer who wanted a way to show diners that their restaurant serves food made with U.S. Identity Preserved crops. 

The result was a sign with an image of buckwheat and the U.S. Identity Preserved brandmark. It reads “This restaurant uses identity preserved buckwheat grown in the United States. These crops are traceable from farm to table, ensuring customers know exactly where their food comes from.” 

“The U.S. Identity Preserved logo is getting more and more recognized around the world every day,” said Shane Frederick, manager of strategic programs for the USIP Alliance. “It’s not just an assurance and statement for U.S. suppliers and exporters of specialty grains and soybeans, but also a symbol of quality and trust for food manufacturers and, now, restauranteurs to show their customers. It’s a brand that has an impact from fork to farm.” 

Several Jinwha Foods customers are preparing to display the sign in their restaurants, including Bongmilga, which plans to hang it near its Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand award, an honor recognizing great food at moderate prices.