Itochu-Shokuhin frozen Japanese fruits: Premium flavor hits US and Asia
Itochu-Shokuhin is expanding exports of premium frozen Japanese fruits, like Shine Muscat grapes, to the US and Asia using advanced liquid cryo-freezing technology.
Can a frozen grape taste like it was just picked from a Japanese vineyard? Itochu-Shokuhin thinks so. The Japanese wholesale giant is betting big on its new line of Itochu-Shokuhin frozen Japanese fruits, targeting consumers across the US and Asia.
The science behind Itochu-Shokuhin frozen Japanese fruits
According to Nikkei, the company's subsidiary is utilizing a liquid cryo-freezing device to preserve its premium produce. Unlike conventional air-freezing, this method submerses the fruit in a sub-zero liquid, which prevents ice crystals from damaging the cellular structure. This means products like the famed Shine Muscat grapes retain their signature sweetness and firm texture even after thawing.
Japan's food exports have already seen a 15% increase recently, and Itochu-Shokuhin aims to capitalize on this momentum. By shifting from fresh to frozen, the company can bypass the logistical nightmares of short shelf lives and high spoilage rates in international shipping.
Expanding global market footprint
The move isn't just a test; it's a full-scale expansion. After seeing success at retailers in Yokohama, Itochu-Shokuhin is scaling its lineup to meet growing demand for Japanese luxury produce in major global cities. By offering year-round availability of seasonal specialties, they're creating a new niche in the premium frozen food sector.
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