TOKYO (AP) — Some snack products in Japan are set to appear in simplified black-and-white packaging as global supply chain disruptions linked to the conflict involving Iran affect access to materials used in colored printing ink.
Tokyo-based Calbee Inc., one of Japan’s leading snack manufacturers known for its potato chips and cereal products distributed domestically and exported to markets including the United States, China, and Australia, said the change is intended to secure stable product supply amid volatile conditions.
In a statement released this week, the company said the adjustment affects 14 products in its lineup starting May 25. Packaging will be limited to two ink colors, significantly reducing the use of multicolor printing.
“This measure is intended to help maintain a stable supply of products,” Calbee said.
The company added that the decision reflects the need to respond flexibly to shifting geopolitical and supply chain risks. It did not specify how long the simplified packaging would remain in place.
The move comes as businesses worldwide continue to face rising costs and shortages of petroleum-derived inputs such as naphtha, which is used in plastics and printing ink production. Market pressures have been compounded by instability in the Middle East, including disruptions tied to the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route for oil.
Japan, which depends heavily on imported energy, has so far avoided severe domestic disruption. Authorities have pointed to national oil reserves and contingency measures as buffers against supply shocks, helping to stabilize public concern.
Calbee, founded in 1949 and employing more than 5,000 people, emphasized that the product contents remain unchanged despite the packaging alterations.
The visual difference is expected to be noticeable to consumers. One of the company’s signature products, lightly salted potato chips known locally as “usu shio,” previously featured bright orange packaging with stylized chip imagery and a mascot character. The revised design replaces these with monochrome text-based labeling.
The company, which also produces shrimp chips under the “kappa ebisen” brand, had earlier announced an expansion-focused business strategy in March. It reiterated that it will continue adjusting to external risks while maintaining supply stability.
“Calbee will continue to respond flexibly and promptly to changes in its operating environment, including geopolitical risks, and remains committed to maintaining a stable supply of safe, high-quality products,” the company said. “We ask for your understanding.”
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
- Paraluman P. Funtanilla
- Paraluman P. Funtanilla
- Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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