In many ways, Japan is ahead of other developed countries in terms of natural, organic and sustainable foods, but that doesn't mean these things are particularly easy for non-Japanese readers when it comes to deciphering these writings and strange labels. If you're desperate to find what you can or can't eat in Japan, read the article below and become a pro at decoding Japanese tags.
Have you ever find yourself in a supermarket, holding an item and having strictly no idea of what was written on the label? Well, we do. When you don’t read Japanese or if you’re still learning, looking for some food when you have a specific diet can become a living hell. Food is essential, good food and especially food that is aligned with your personal diet is even more essential—we would say vital, actually.
Even though Japanese is a beautiful language, it can be tricky to decipher its writings, especially in busy supermarkets after a long day at work. Below is a list of terms commonly used on the labels of natural or specific diet food products. Memorize these—or print out the list and take it with you when you go shopping.
Natural Foods
May it be Japan or elsewhere, organic foodsand ready-to-eat meals are trending. We are becoming more and more conscious of what we eat and how we fuel our body, getting ourselves into a more natural lifestyle.
It seems obvious that the food we choose is the best weapon we have when trying to get healthier, but we still have to decode these labels! This first list below is perfect when you are on the look for organic, more ethicalor natural items to grab.
Dietary Requirements
Are you following a specific diet? It could be for health reasons, convictions or just in order to try out something new for your body—anyway, there is always that moment where you have to explain what is your diet or look for thatlabel on a package. Take a look at the list below to find your own!
You may have noticed that 不使用 (fushiyou) and フリー (furii) are both used in these kinds of expressions, they basically mean the same thing. フリー roughly translate as “free” and has become a common way to say “without” when it comes to food labeling.
Is there something you need and don’t see on that list? Leave a comment below orcontact usso that we can add it right away!
