We know what you’re thinking, but stay with us. TamJai Yunnan Mixian and TamJai SamGor Mixian, two beloved Hong Kong noodle chains, have taken sustainability to a whole new level by upcycling leftover pork belly from their central kitchens into a range of eco-friendly products. From lip balm to handmade soap, these items are part of Tamjai’s initiatives to support environmental and social causes.
Er, why?
This eyebrow-raising initiative is part of Tamjai’s commitment to sustainability and community care. Every day, their central kitchens use hundreds of kilos of pork belly to make their popular dishes. But instead of tossing the scraps, they’ve teamed up with the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education (IVE), the Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI), and the New Life Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association to transform these leftovers into useful, eco-friendly products.
So, what products did Tamjai make?
Tamjai’s new line of upcycled products includes a lemon-scented lip balm, made using natural oils from leftover pork belly, blended with almond oil and lemon essential oil. They’ve also crafted a handmade soap that’s said to be gentle on your skin and free of artificial colours. Last but not least, the lemongrass lemon-scented candle combines fatty oils with lemongrass and lemon oils for a calming aroma.
How are these products made?
The process begins at Tamjai’s central kitchens, where leftover pork belly is collected and sent to IVE’s food technology and safety team. Natural oils are extracted and unwanted odours are removed. These oils are then combined with natural ingredients like lemon and almond oil to create the base for the products.
For the production process, trainees from the New Life Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association stepped in to help measure, melt, pour, and package every item by hand. Meanwhile, HKDI students brought the project to life with the creation of the ‘Pork Belly Angel’ mascot, adding a playful touch to the eco-friendly mission.
Where can I buy these upcycled Tamjai products?
The upcycled products are available as a set for $100, which includes a lip balm, handmade soap, and a scented candle. The set also comes with a pouch featuring the ‘Pork Belly Angel’ character and a set of stickers. You can get the set now at 20 selected TamJai and TamJai SamGor locations across Hong Kong. See the full list of participating stores here (Chinese only).
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