War in Iran Causes Snack Packaging to Lose Color in Japan
Here is an unexpected effect of the war in Iran that no one really saw coming: due to the ongoing conflict, a major snack brand in Japan will stop using colorful packaging and switch to black-and-white designs.
War in Iran Causes Snack Packaging to Lose Color in Japan
Snack aisles in Japanese convenience stores and supermarkets are known for their bright, colorful packaging. However, that familiar visual identity is about to change dramatically in the coming weeks.
Japanese company Calbee has announced that it will replace the colorful packaging of several of its best-selling products with monochrome black-and-white versions. This includes popular flavors such as Usushio and Consommé Punch.
What they used to look like:
What they will look like:
The reason behind this decision is directly tied to the economic impact of the war in the Middle East, particularly involving Iran.
Oil crisis impacts ink production in Japan
The Middle East is one of the most important regions in the world for oil and chemical supply chains. One of the key materials affected is naphtha, a hydrocarbon used in the production of industrial inks, solvents, and resins.
With shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, the cost and availability of naphtha have increased significantly. This has also impacted ink production used for food packaging in Japan.
To reduce costs and conserve materials, Calbee decided to simplify its packaging and temporarily remove color printing.
In addition to classic potato chips, other popular products such as Kappa Ebisen are also expected to receive monochrome packaging in upcoming shipments.
Black-and-white snack packaging in Japan may expand to other products
The shortage of naphtha is not only affecting snacks. Local reports suggest that other popular food products in Japan may also face production challenges.
Items such as puddings and purin desserts are mentioned among those potentially affected, since the same chemical is used in producing the plastic containers they come in.
According to company statements, the first black-and-white packages are scheduled to begin shipping to stores at the end of May. There is still no official timeline for when colorful packaging will return.
via Soranews