Ramen Chain in Japan Shifts to Underutilized U.S. Pork Item for Popular Dish

A persistently weak yen, inflation and rising prices continue pressuring Japanese foodservice chains to pursue less-expensive ingredients for menu items, especially in value-oriented sectors. USMEF works with importers and target accounts on affordable, alternative U.S. pork and beef options, recently helping a ramen noodle chain switch to U.S. pork as an ingredient in one of its most popular dishes.

Nationwide chain Ramen Kagetsu, which operates 250 stores throughout Japan, had previously used EU sheet belly for a Cantonese-style barbecued pork dish. But rising prices triggered the need for a more affordable product, and USMEF tested several pork options for the dish. USMEF ultimately recommended the ramen chain switch to U.S. pork false lean, an underutilized subcutaneous muscle imbedded in the fat overlying the shoulder end of the loin.

To support testing for the U.S. pork item, USMEF proposed a menu promotional plan for the new dish. The company shifted to U.S. pork in February and expects to utilize 40 metric tons of the product each month.

Promotional support is provided by the National Pork Board, and USDA’s Regional Agricultural Promotion Program and Market Access Program.