# Ninja-Inspired Hot Dogs IKEA Japan Introduced an All-Black Addition to its Food Menu By Riley von Niessen | Published 2016-07-12 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ikea-japan References: [designtaxi](http://www.designtaxi.com/news/387034/IKEA-Japan-Debuts-Giant-Black-Wiener-Dogs-Close-To-30CM-For-10th-Anniversary/) & [instagram](https://www.instagram.com/p/BHb1nYmgZwp/) [IKEA](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/this-isnt-pork-sausages) Japan created a charcoal-colored hot dog that's set to appear at a few select locations of the furniture company. The bizarre food item has been termed a 'Ninja Dog' -- a name that's used to describe its shadowy appearance. Though the products don't look all that appetizing, it's likely that it will be a hit for IKEA Japan shoppers with a taste for obscure treats -- or even those who just want to snap a picture to share on social media. The Ninja-inspired food is filling as well, with each measuring in around 12 inches in length. The bun for the hot dogs is only 8 inches however, adding even more to the strange appeal. IKEA Japan claims that the [Ninja Dogs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/air-fryer-food-range) are healthy too, with the edible bamboo charcoal that gives it the color said to offer detoxifying properties. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.2/10 - Popularity: 44% | Activity: 44% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Food](https://www.trendhunter.com/food) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Charcoal Food Trend:** The rise of charcoal-infused food products offers an opportunity for innovative culinary creations and unique dining experiences. - **Obscure Food Trend:** The popularity of strange and unconventional food items presents an opportunity for businesses to attract adventurous eaters and generate social media buzz. - **Health-conscious Fast Food Trend:** The demand for healthier fast food options opens up possibilities for businesses to introduce nutritious alternatives in the quick-serve industry. ### Where This Applies - **Food and Beverage Industry:** Incorporating charcoal-infused ingredients into food and beverage offerings can set brands apart and cater to consumers seeking unconventional culinary experiences. - **Hospitality and Entertainment Industry:** Restaurants, cafes, and pop-up eateries can capitalize on the trend of bizarre food items to attract customers looking for unique dining experiences. - **Healthy Food Industry:** Creating fast food options that are both nutritious and appealing allows businesses to tap into the growing health-conscious market. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Japanese-Style Hotdogs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/japanese-style-hotdogs.md) - [Free-From Piquant Hotdogs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hot-spicy-beef-franks.md) - [Vegan Hot Dog Kits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chicago-dog.md) - [Super Spicy Squid Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/squid-devil-burger.md) - [Spicy Beef Hot Dogs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/spicy-beef-franks.md) - [Hot Dog-Flavored Sparkling Waters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/big-bite-hot-dog-sparkling-water.md) - [Korean BBQ Hot Dogs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/korean-bbq-sausage.md) - [Collaboration BBQ Hot Dogs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wagyu-dog.md) - [Hot Dog Ice Creams](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hot-dog-ice-cream.md)