TOY MEDICAL

TOY MEDICAL Co., Ltd. is a Japanese company tackling the global issue of excessive salt intake. It was founded in October 2013 by Hidenori Takeshita and a small team, initially focusing on developing disposable medical products for hospitals from a one-room apartment. The company's direction pivoted after engaging with dialysis patients who expressed distress over restrictive, low-sodium diets. This inspired the development of a technology to reduce sodium absorption from food.

The company has developed a unique, patented technology that uses alginate, a type of dietary fiber derived from seaweed, to absorb sodium in the digestive tract before it enters the body. This core technology led to the creation of their flagship product, a supplement named "DEL SALT." They also offer "GABA DELSOL," a functional food product that includes GABA for individuals with higher blood pressure, and the "Rei (Zero)" series of seasonings that apply the same salt-absorbing technology. These products are sold directly to consumers via their online shop.

TOY MEDICAL started as a medical device manufacturer, creating products like less painful tapes for dialysis patients, before venturing into food technology. The development of the salt-absorption formula took two years of research in collaboration with Kumamoto University to overcome challenges and ensure effectiveness. The company has secured funding from entities including Rohto Pharmaceutical, a major Japanese pharmaceutical company, and the Higo Bank Venture Fund to enhance product development and expand its sales channels.

Keywords: salt reduction, sodium absorption, dietary supplements, functional foods, food technology, health and wellness, medical foods, alginate fiber, hypertension management, dialysis patient support, wellness products, Japanese startup, food innovation, low-sodium diet, salt control, e-commerce, nutraceuticals, health supplements, food seasonings, medical device manufacturing