In this article, we’ll cover both classic favorites and the latest Japanese sweets that are currently gaining attention.

At Zelico, we export Japanese products to many countries worldwide. If you’re interested in Japanese food, please don’t hesitate to contact us!

What Snacks Are Trending? Get the Latest Highlights

When thinking of popular Japanese snacks abroad, you might consider items like Kaki Pea (rice crackers and peanuts), Tongari Corn (corn snacks), Karumucho (spicy chips), and Kappa Ebisen (shrimp-flavored rice crackers). 

These classic snacks continue to be bestsellers, but in recent years, there are three key features that have made some new snacks stand out.

In Asia, it’s common for companies to hold licensing rights for both Japanese and international characters. Many are planning to use these rights to produce their own OEM products.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the import and export of snacks with these unique characteristics. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular and recommended snacks currently trending.

1.Premium Snacks

With increasing demand for gifts, luxurious boxed snacks are becoming very popular.

In addition to sweet treats like manju (sweet buns) and cookies, there's been a rise in inquiries about assorted senbei (rice crackers) for snack lovers. 

These snacks have a relatively long shelf life, and are well-suited for transportation.

2.Regional Specialty Snacks

While Kyoto's matcha and Hokkaido's seafood are already well-known, other regional specialties are gaining attention as well. 

For example, snacks featuring Setouchi lemons, Okayama white peaches, and Shizuoka wasabi are becoming more common. 

If you're on the lookout for new Japanese foods, consider exploring these regional specialties.

3.OEM Availability

At trade shows, a frequent question is whether OEM services are available.

Especially in the Asian region, companies often hold the rights to characters from Japan or overseas, and it seems they are planning to use these rights to produce their own OEM products.

In recent years, there has been an increasing trend in the import and export of snacks with such characteristics. Now, let’s take a look at some popular snacks.

Perfect for Gifts: Premium Ebi Senbei Box

Meeting the demand for premium gifts, our ebi senbei (shrimp rice crackers) set is highly popular.

This luxurious box features 18 pieces of richly flavored senbei, with a base of shrimp and variations like “okaka” (dried bonito) and “goma” (sesame).

Brand: Zelico
Flavors: Traditional Japanese, Cheese
Shelf Life: 180 days
For more details on ingredients and product information, please contact us here.

Spotlight on Setouchi Lemon Snacks

These lemon-flavored snacks are ideal for hot weather, featuring a tangy lemon zest that enhances the savory crunch of ika-ten (dried squid snacks). 

This popular product highlights the distinctive flavor of Setouchi lemons, a renowned lemon-producing region in Japan.

Brand: Maruka Foods
Shelf Life: 180 days
For more details on the product, please refer to this page.
For information such as ingredients, please contact us.

Premium Senbei with Wasabi Flavor

Introducing "Shokunin no Kuchinaoshi," a high-quality senbei designed for adults who appreciate the finest flavors. 

This gourmet snack features a range of sophisticated tastes, including wasabi with a zesty and refreshing kick, uni cream cheese with a rich and indulgent seafood flavor, and sakura shrimp with a delicate, ocean-fresh taste.

Brand: Zelico
Flavors: Wasabi, Uni Cream Cheese, Sakura Shrimp
Shelf Life: 150 to 180 days
For more details on ingredients and product information, please contact us here.

Available for Global Export and OEM 

The snacks introduced in this article are available in a wide range of areas worldwide.

We’ve compiled answers to common questions about the process, so if you have any inquiries, be sure to check it out.

FAQs

Q: What countries does Zelico export to?
A: We generally cater to all countries.

Q: What kind of products do you handle?
A: We offer a wide range of Japanese brands and products, including snacks, foods, seasonings, Japanese sake, and frozen foods.

Q: Do you handle sample orders?
A: Yes, sample orders are available. Please contact us for more information on which products are available for sample orders, and details on method of export.

Q: Can you provide the specified documents we request?
A: With our extensive experience, we can generally accommodate your requests.

Q: Do you have an FDA contract?
A: We handle many FDA compliant products.

Q: What kind of company is Zelico?
A: Zelico is a long-standing Japanese company with a 140-year history.


At Zelico, we will continue to provide high-quality Japanese products to our overseas customers.

If you're interested in our sweets or any other Japanese foods, please feel free to contact us!

Please find out more about our sweet treats from this blog.