#Japan #Tokyo #Tokachi #Meiji Cheese #Evening Snack

A New Taste Sensation for Cheese Lovers

Meiji Co., Ltd. is set to unveil its latest cheese offerings—"Meiji Hokkaido Tokachi Smart Cheese"—which are perfect for evening snacks. Launching on June 15, 2026, these cheese products will be available across convenience stores in Japan.

The new products include two delicious options: the "Aged Cheddar Blend" and the "Black Pepper Parmesan Blend," each containing four individually packaged pieces. Designed to cater to the increasing demand for afternoon snacks, especially during evening drinks, these cheeses are made with over 60% natural cheese sourced from the Tokachi factory.

Each individual serving of these cheese blends weighs 45 grams, with a retail price of 194 yen (including tax). They are crafted using unique fermentation technology that enhances flavor while providing a rich taste reminiscent of aged natural cheese, all while maintaining a delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture.

The Aged Cheddar Blend includes over 30% of the local specialty cheese known as "Tokachi Umami Rich Cheddar," creating a depth of flavor that’s undeniably satisfying. The Black Pepper Parmesan Blend features aromatic "Tokachi Kaori Rich Parmesan" mixed with spices from black pepper, enhancing the intense flavor of the cheese and making for a fantastic accompaniment to drinks.

In developing these products, Meiji conducted research into customer purchasing trends among existing users of the "Meiji Hokkaido Tokachi Smart Cheese" line. They discovered that customers purchasing premium beer often paired it with snacks, leading to the concept of “overwhelming snack cheese.” This approach aims to cater specifically to those who enjoy grabbing drinks and tasty bites from convenience stores.

To appeal to the target audience, the packaging design has been created to immediately convey the products' features to shoppers who are seeking evening snacks. The catchy phrases used—"Rich" for the Aged Cheddar and "Spicy" for the Black Pepper Parmesan—are accompanied by contrast-rich colors to ensure the packages stand out in a retail setting, despite their slim size.

With this new launch, Meiji aims not only to enhance the enjoyment of cheese but also to contribute positively to the daily lives of its consumers. By promoting the delightful and fun aspects of cheese, Meiji hopes to bring joy to moments of relaxation and celebration. The company remains committed to delivering quality products that cater to the evolving tastes and snacking habits of its loyal customers.