Cho-Musubi: Stool Donation Platform

Metagen Therapeutics is developing a new treatment for multiple diseases such as ulcerative colitis and intestinal cancers by utilising gut microbiota extracted from stools of healthy Japanese donors — specifically, the top 10% with excellent therapeutic quality. Chomusubi, Japan’s first stool donation platform, combines a web app and a dedicated donation facility to create an integrated user experience. The platform’s app guides users through screenings and assessments, using thoughtful design to turn demanding steps into acts of social contribution and self-awareness. The stool donation room is calm and welcoming with private booths and shared relaxation areas. A custom non-flushing toilet and dedicated post box streamline transfer to on-site processing facilities. After screening, donors will receive a gut health report that visualises the diversity and composition of their gut microbiota, providing personalised health insights. Once a donor is certified, Chomusubi fosters ongoing engagement through health tips, milestone updates, and a medal system that rewards sustained contribution and medical participation as a meaningful part of daily life. In April 2025, the stool donation platform launched in Tsuruoka City, where UNESCO named it the Creative City of Gastronomy, as a proof of concept for nationwide expansion and has since attracted strong interest as a new way to share health among citizens in a community. Red Dot Award: Design Concept | Ready For Market | Service Design