These bamboo shoots were grown in the mountains of Oita Prefecture, where the water and air are clean. They were harvested and immediately boiled in rice bran, then dried in the sun. This is from the autumn harvest of Reiwa 5 (2023). They are delicious in simmered dishes and also make a wonderfully crunchy kinpira (stir-fried bamboo shoots). Highly recommended! (^-^) Since this is from last year, I've increased the quantity and lowered the price. The color may have darkened slightly, but as they are dried, the taste should be unaffected. Thank you for your understanding and purchase.