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"Japanese Companies Embrace Plant-Based Seafood Alternatives, Nichirei and Fuji Oil Among Pioneers"
In a notable trend shift, Tokyo-based Nichirei Corporation and Osaka-based Fuji Oil Holdings are spearheading the introduction of plant-based seafood analogs in Japan, aligning with health and sustainability objectives.
Nichirei Fresh, a subsidiary of Nichirei Corporation, commenced trial sales of its cholesterol-free, kelp-based salmon roe substitute online in September last year. With a targeted launch scheduled for 2025, the product caters to health-conscious consumers and individuals with fish egg allergies, a demographic influenced by a significant incidence rate among toddlers, as revealed in a 2020 study referencing 2011 data.
Meanwhile, Fuji Oil Holdings, headquartered in Izumisano, Osaka Prefecture, diversified its product range to include seafood analogs in 2019. Initially motivated by the anticipated surge in vegan and vegetarian tourists during the Tokyo Olympic Games, which were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the company now aims to capitalize on the resurgence of tourism.
Despite a slower-than-expected adoption rate, Fuji Oil remains optimistic about the revival of demand for its analog offerings, particularly among ramen shops nationwide, including international chains like Ippudo. Atsushi Sato, a chef and global business manager at the Osaka-based Chibo chain, attests to the growing demand for vegetarian and halal options among tourists, further underscoring the potential market for plant-based seafood alternatives.
With aspirations to tap into the burgeoning seafood market, Fuji Oil is banking on the increasing popularity of its sea urchin and bonito analogs to drive growth and innovation in the plant-based food sector.
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