While onigiri is well-known throughout Japan as a savory snack option, now a Massachusetts-based brand is bringing the delicacy to North American consumers with its 'yusō' brand snacks.
Onigiri is a savory rice ball filled with a protein such as salmon and then wrapped in a layer of crunchy nori. yusō onigiri puts a North American-twist on the Japanese delicacy by using additive-free seaweed, California-grown sushi rice and premium seeds such as hemp, flax and chia. yusō onigiri is also lower in salt than the Japanese variety and features premium fish fillings such as locally smoked Atlantic mackerel, cold-smoked steelhead and buttery Icelandic salmon. There is also a vegetarian option made from chickpeas for those who are looking for a seafood-free version.
With the refrigerated snack category continuing to grow, these healthy fish cakes are the perfect option for those looking for something savory over sweet.
Chilled Seaweed Snacks
'yusō onigiri' Brings a Savory Japanese Snack to North American Consumers
Trend Themes
1. Refrigerated Snack Growth - The refrigerated snack category is continuing to grow, providing opportunities for new and innovative products like yusō onigiri.
2. Seaweed Snack Innovation - Seaweed snacks are becoming increasingly popular, and yusō onigiri taps into this trend by offering a unique and healthy twist on the traditional Japanese snack.
3. Savory Over Sweet - As consumers seek healthier snack options, the demand for savory snacks like yusō onigiri is increasing.
Industry Implications
1. Refrigerated Snacks - The refrigerated snack industry can capitalize on the growing demand for healthy and convenient snack options by expanding their product offerings with innovative and unique choices.
2. Seaweed Snacks - The seaweed snack industry can take advantage of the increasing popularity of seaweed-based products by exploring new flavor profiles and incorporating other nutritious ingredients, like yusō onigiri does with its premium fish fillings and alternative protein options.
3. Health Food - The health food industry can benefit from the rising trend of consumers choosing healthier snack alternatives by developing and promoting innovative products like yusō onigiri that offer both taste and nutrition in one package.