Jess Mantell from Thornhill, Ontario, has released plant-based food products inspired by her time living in Japan. According to an August 15 article posted on Toronto’s The Star, the company, Abokichi Inc., has expanded from one table at a farmers market to food co-ops, small shops and now larger grocery stores. The company is certified as a non-GMO company. 

They sell three different miso-based sesame oil condiments — Okazu Chili Miso, Okazu Curry Miso and Okazu Spicy Chili, as well as an instant miso soup. At the 2020 sofi Awards the products won a Gold Award from among 1,800 marinades, dressings and condiments. The company plans to release an instant ramen in the fall.