Tag: Japanese food trends

According to a 2015 survey, approximately 45% of the Japanese population reports symptoms of lactose intolerance, yet the popularity of traditional dairy remains strong. The question, however, is: is lactose-free milk popular in Japan? The answer is nuanced, as plant-based alternatives have become a more dominant force than specialized lactose-free dairy milk.

While traditionally associated with Brazilian and Hawaiian cuisine, the acai craze has significantly hit Japan, with juices and smoothies now found on thousands of convenience store shelves. Japan has enthusiastically embraced this Amazonian superfruit, making it easy to find for both residents and tourists seeking healthy and delicious options.

While milk may not be a staple in traditional Japanese cuisine, approximately 85% of people in Japan reported consuming dairy in 2015, although only 30% drank it daily. The nation's relationship with milk has evolved significantly over time, becoming an important part of modern diets and culture.

According to Statista, a survey conducted in 2021 revealed that the majority of Japanese consumers eat yogurt on at least one day a week. This demonstrates that, contrary to some assumptions, yogurt is a common and widely accepted part of the modern Japanese diet. Its popularity has been steadily increasing, driven by a growing interest in health, wellness, and convenience.

Since the 1990s, Japan has seen a more than 12-fold increase in olive oil purchases, making it Asia's largest per capita consumer. This rapid adoption, fueled by growing health awareness and Western culinary influence, reveals a dynamic shift in the Japanese kitchen. So, do Japanese use olive oil? Absolutely, though its role differs from traditional oils like sesame and canola.