Japan's largest snack manufacturer, Calbee, has announced it will switch to black-and-white packaging for 14 of its flagship products due to shortages of ink ingredients caused by the ongoing Iran war and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The move, which affects brightly colored bag designs particularly known for its potato chip brands, will be implemented by the end of May.
Supply Chain Disruption
The decision was forced by disrupted supplies of naphtha, a petroleum-derived ingredient essential for printing ink. Calbee stated it was responding to an unstable supply of certain raw materials resulting from the war. Japan relies on imports from the Middle East for approximately 40% of its naphtha consumption, making the blockade a critical issue.
Government Response
The Japanese government has sought to reassure the public and businesses. Kei Sato, a senior government spokesperson, confirmed that domestic naphtha refining continues using stockpiled crude oil, and imports from outside the Middle East have tripled in May compared to pre-war levels. He emphasized that adequate supplies of naphtha have been secured for important functions in Japan, and the government is working with major corporations to ensure imports via alternative routes to the Strait of Hormuz.
This incident follows a brief panic in March when another crisps brand temporarily halted production of a popular snack due to difficulties procuring heavy oil for its factory.
Company Background
Calbee was founded in Hiroshima in 1949, as the city was recovering from the atomic bombing. It has since grown into a snack giant with products sold across Asia, Europe, and the United States. The company acquired the UK's Seabrook Crisps in 2018 and recorded sales of 322.5 billion yen ($2.04 billion) in 2025.
Market Impact
Following the announcement, Calbee's shares dipped more than 1%, while the Nikkei 225 Index overall saw gains. The Guardian has contacted Calbee for further comment.
The situation highlights the broader economic impact of the Iran war, which has also cost Toyota an estimated £3 billion due to soaring material prices and falling sales.
