Some Japanese snack packages are turning black-and-white as Iran war depletes ink supply

Some Japanese snack packages are turning black-and-white as Iran war depletes ink supply

Some Japanese snack packages are turning black-and-white as Iran war depletes ink supply

2026-05-13 14:47:22



The Gray Area How the Iran War Affects Your Snack Game

As fashion historians and professionals, we're no strangers to cultural shi
shifts and societal changes. But what might seem unrelated to our industry 
can still have a significant impact on our daily lives – even down to the p
packaging of our favorite snacks! In this blog post, we'll delve into how t
the ongoing war in Iran is affecting Japanese snack packages, specifically 
those of Calbee Inc.

The Colorful Consequences of War

In response to supply chain disruptions caused by the war, Calbee has annou
announced a temporary change in packaging for 14 of its products. The compa
company will be switching from vibrant colors to monochrome (black-and-whit
(black-and-white) designs. This means that fans of bright and bold snack pa
packaging – like those iconic orange bags of lightly salted potato chips – 
will have to get used to a more subdued aesthetic.

The reason behind this change lies in the Strait of Hormuz, where the war h
has effectively closed off a key oil trade route. As Japan relies almost en
entirely on oil imports, the ripple effects of this closure are being felt 
across various industries – including ink production.

A Black-and-White Solution

Naphtha, an essential component used in the manufacture of plastics and ink
ink, is facing supply chain disruptions due to the war. Calbee's decision t
to switch to black-and-white packaging is a proactive measure aimed at ensu
ensuring that their products continue to flow smoothly onto shelves. By ada
adapting to changing circumstances, Calbee is demonstrating its commitment 
to maintaining a stable supply of high-quality products.

Fashionable Flexibility in Uncertain Times

As fashion historians and professionals, we know that flexibility is key in
in responding to unexpected changes. Calbee's prompt reaction to the situat
situation demonstrates its willingness to adapt and find creative solutions
solutions – even if it means adjusting packaging designs temporarily.

The Future Gray (for Now)

While it's impossible to predict exactly how long this change will last, on
one thing is certain Calbee's customers are in for a treat as they adjust 
to the new monochrome designs. Who knows? Maybe this temporary shift will e
even start a new trend in packaging design!

Conclusion

As fashion historians and professionals, it's fascinating to see how global
global events can have a ripple effect on seemingly unrelated industries – 
like snack packaging! By embracing flexibility and adaptability, Calbee is 
showing that even in uncertain times, there's always room for creative prob
problem-solving.

Keywords snack packaging, Japan, Iran war, Calbee Inc., naphtha, oil trade
trade route, Strait of Hormuz, supply chain disruptions.


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Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.

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