Bento boxes are basically Japan's answer to a packed lunch which generally contains rice (sometimes dyed in different colors), fish or meat, with pickled or cooked vegetables as a side dish. As with sandwiches, bento boxes can also be bought ready-made, but unlike in western cultures, these are not just meant as meals, but as pieces of art. To the Japanese, making Bento is considered an art, as this cluster clearly points out.
Implications - The culinary world has seen a recent influx in the incorporation of art and design into food presentation. Consumers worldwide with an appreciation for art and other cultures will be attracted to items and services that offer a customized and exotic experience. Businesses can appeal to customers by combining practical products for everyday use with individualized creative customizations.
10 Beautiful Bento Box Innovations
10
Japanese Lunch Art
Bizarre Bento Boxes
9
Edible Cartoons
Face Food Bento Boxes
8
Spooky Bento Boxes
10 Halloween-Inspired Mini Meals
7
Edible Album Covers
Obacchi Jacket Bento Meals
6
Lunch Box for Dogs
Dora Bento Pochi
5
Bento Artistry
Creativity Expressed Through the Art of the Japanese Lunch Box
4
Family Bonding Through Bento
In Japan, 'Bento Day' Lets Kids Learn to Make Healthy Lunches
3
Competitive Lunch Box Creations
Star Wars Art in the Bento Challenge
2
Edible Album Covers (UPDATE)
Bento Box Art
1
Festive Bento Boxes
Seasoned Seasons Greetings Depict Rice as Snow
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