With the Japanese Yen at an all-time low and increased inflation numbers pinching pocketbooks, Japanese companies have been eager for any form of reprieve. A recent upswing in rice export prices has offered a ray of hope for the beleaguered rice export division of the Japanese economy. The reason for the increased export prices of rice comes from a surprising source — onigiri rice balls.
Japanese Staple Finds Foothold Overseas If you’re unsure just what an onigiri rice ball is, you’re not alone. These delicate yet delicious rice balls are catching the interest of consumers outside of Japan. Onigiri are fluffy, sticky Japanese rice balls wrapped in seaweed and compressed into varying shapes — usually triangles.
These delicious parcels often contain a filling, too. Billed as Japan’s original traveler’s food, early versions incorporated salty or sour ingredients to preserve the rice for one’s journey. Nowadays, these little morsels are a lunchtime staple or pick-me-up snack.
Favorite versions of onigiri contain salted salmon, pickled plum, or other regional favorites. Japan News reports onigiri are taking Western nations by storm, becoming increasingly popular with health-conscious foreigners in Japan taking their new-found favorite snack back to their home country. Six-Fold Increase in Rice Exports This newfound interest is excellent news for Japanese rice farmers.
Per-capita rice consumption peaked in 1962, with 2022 estimates for Japanese consumption nearing hal.