Yoshinoya, a major Japanese fast-food chain, is diversifying its menu by introducing ostrich meat in response to ongoing shortages of its popular beef bowls. In late August, the chain launched ostrich meat rice bowls at 400 outlets across Japan, pricing them at 1,683 yen (approximately US$12) each. The flightless bird now joins Yoshinoya’s lineup of beef, pork, and chicken as a new meat option amid increasing pressures on traditional meat supplies.
This move marks Yoshinoya’s effort to reduce its reliance on beef and other meats by exploring sustainable and cost-effective alternatives. Ostriches are considered an environmentally friendly option due to their lower farming costs and reduced impact on the environment compared to other livestock. The company’s president, Yasutaka Kawamura, emphasized the need to diversify the business to minimize risks while continuing to maintain its core beef bowl offerings.
In addition to introducing ostrich meat, Yoshinoya plans to expand its ostrich-derived skincare products as part of its broader ostrich business. Developed by its subsidiary, Speedia, these skincare products are made using ostrich oil, which research has shown enhances the absorption of beauty ingredients into the skin. Speedia currently maintains a flock of 500 ostriches at a farm in Ibaraki prefecture, northeast of Tokyo, which supports both the company’s food and skincare operations.
Yoshinoya aims to secure additional funding for future ostrich meat production by increasing sales of these skincare products. The cosmetics are available for purchase through the company’s official website and are also sold by various online retailers and chemist chains across Japan.
By diversifying its offerings, Yoshinoya hopes to grow its business sustainably while mitigating the impact of fluctuating meat supplies. The introduction of ostrich meat and expansion of its skincare products reflect the company’s commitment to exploring innovative solutions and expanding beyond traditional beef bowls to meet both environmental and consumer demands.
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