TOKYO, Apr 03 (News On Japan) –
Natto, a standard Japanese staple typically eaten with rice, is gaining reputation not solely in Japan however more and more abroad, with exports rising sharply as world shoppers embrace its well being advantages.
According to commerce statistics from Japan’s Ministry of Finance, natto exports reached 5,248 tons in 2025, almost tripling from 1,752 tons in 2017 over an eight-year interval, reflecting a surge in worldwide demand.
China and the United States account for roughly half of complete exports, although shipments now lengthen to a rising variety of nations worldwide.
The Japan Natto Cooperative Society Federation attributes the rising reputation to a world shift towards health-conscious consuming following the COVID-19 pandemic.
While natto was as soon as thought of difficult for international shoppers on account of its sticky texture and powerful odor, perceptions have modified in recent times, with social media taking part in a key position. Videos tagged with “#Natto” and “#NattoChallenge” have unfold broadly, encouraging individuals around the globe to strive the dish.
Another issue driving demand is tourism, as extra guests to Japan encounter natto at resort breakfast buffets and proceed consuming it after returning dwelling.
In response to rising abroad demand, Hokkaido-based meals producer Hokkaido Hamanasu Foods noticed its worldwide gross sales enhance roughly 60-fold over eight years, prompting the corporate to open a brand new natto manufacturing facility in 2023.
Abroad, natto is often transported and bought in frozen kind, as freezing locations the micro organism right into a dormant state with out affecting style or high quality.
Some fanatics have gone even additional, selecting to make natto themselves. Cedric, a resident of France, turned keen on natto after visiting Japan in 2018. Unable to seek out it regionally, he started producing it at dwelling by ordering natto micro organism on-line, fermenting soybeans utilizing a yogurt maker.
He enjoys customizing the dish with components comparable to coriander, garlic, and soy sauce, typically serving it over rice.
As natto continues to realize traction worldwide, inventive variations and recipes tailor-made to native tastes are additionally rising, additional increasing its enchantment past Japan.
Source: TBS