High protein and low fat fish snack market is growing.
D Holdings Co., Ltd. is driving innovation in Japan’s snack market by leveraging traditional Japanese ingredients to create unique snack items, especially in the seafood delicacy category. One of its standout products, “Aburi-Yaki (Flame-Grilled Fish)”, launched in 2022, recorded an impressive 143.6% year-over-year sales increase. This success highlights growing consumer demand for snacks that offer both indulgence and health benefits. Seafood-based delicacies, traditionally enjoyed as accompaniments to alcohol in Japan, are now gaining attention as healthy, high-protein snack options for dieters. These products are not only rich in protein and low in fat, but also naturally contain essential nutrients such as DHA and EPA. With their sweet-savory flavor, smoky grilled aroma, and satisfyingly chewy texture, these snacks appeal not only to connoisseurs of traditional Japanese "chinmi" but also to health-conscious consumers seeking functional, guilt-free treats.
Fresh squid is seasoned with a sweet and savory glaze, then flame-grilled to lock in its rich umami flavor. The glossy black sheen and smoky aroma make this an irresistible delicacy that perfectly complements a drink — a truly addictive treat for seafood lovers.

A healthy and satisfying snack made with domestically sourced saba (mackerel) chips seasoned with soy sauce, blended with almonds and sesame-coated dried anchovies. Rich in DHA and EPA, this mix offers both great taste and nutritional benefits.

A health-conscious snack that brings out the natural goodness of its ingredients. This unique mix features lightly salted dried natto (fermented soybeans) paired with crispy okra chips — a delicious and wholesome way to support your well-being.

Martner Japan insight comment
Seafood delicacies have already seen explosive growth in popularity across China and Southeast Asia. Why not consider offering products from a company with proven export capabilities in your market as well? As a new category, these items would be an excellent fit alongside nuts and other premium snack offerings.
Source:Seven Eleven website
Related Articles
TOFU sweet bar innovation
Martner Japan insight comment The Tofu Bar is a clean-label, plant-based food product that maximizes the natural power of soybeans by eliminating unwanted bitterness and off-flavors. Seasoned and ready-to-eat, it is designed to suit a variety of modern...
Sweet potato snacking “Salted Karinto made with ‘Kogane Sengan’, a premium sweet potato grown in Kyushu Japan
Martner Japan insight comment "Imo Kenpi" is a traditional Japanese snack made by deep-frying thin strips of sweet potato and coating them with a light sugar glaze. It pairs perfectly with Japanese tea or other beverages, yet this simple and delicious snack remains...
FIZZPRESSO: Redefining RTD Coffee with Sparkling Espresso Innovation
Martner Japan insight commentSuccess for FIZZPRESSO will depend on how effectively ITO EN can frame it not as “coffee with bubbles,” but as a new category altogether—akin to the way hard seltzer or cold brew evolved beyond their origins. Positioning, packaging, and...