Tokyo [Japan], May 13: Japan's leading potato chip maker is feeling the crunch from shortages linked to the Iran war, swapping its signature orange-and-yellow packets for black and white. A household name in Japan, Calbee is known for its savory potato chips with an array of flavors from seaweed salt to soy sauce and butter.
The company said Tuesday it will "revise the packaging specifications" and use just "two colors" in packaging for 14 product lines beginning later this month or in June. It did not say which two colors, but the statement showed photos of grey packaging. Calbee blamed "supply instability for certain raw materials resulting from the escalating tensions in the Middle East".
Local media said the snack-maker has seen its procurement of printing ink compromised by shortages of naphtha, an oil byproduct used in a wide range of industries. The goods affected included several potato chip products, as well as a breakfast cereal and Kappa Ebisen, a moreish shrimp snack known for the slogan "can't stop, can't stop".
"We will continue to respond swiftly and flexibly to changes in the business environment, including geopolitical risks, while striving to deliver safe, reliable, and satisfying products," thecompany said.
Source: Qatar Tribune
