#Japan #Tokyo #Yoshinoya #Universal Design Food #Beef Porridge

Yoshinoya Launches Beef Porridge for Seniors

In an innovative move aimed at enhancing the quality of life for the elderly, Yoshinoya has announced the release of its new product, "Beef Porridge" under the "Yoshinoya's Gentle Meals®" series. Set to hit the shelves on October 1, 2025, this ready-to-eat meal is designed with both taste and nutrition in mind, making it ideal for individuals with chewing or swallowing difficulties.

Product Overview

• - Product Name: Yoshinoya's Gentle Meals RT Beef Porridge 160g
• - Type: Universal Design Food (UDF)
• - Details:

- Net Weight: 160g per pouch
- Sodium Content: 1.2g per pouch
- Shelf Life: One year from the date of manufacture

Universal Design Foods are created with an emphasis on ease of consumption, catering to a wide range of dietary needs from everyday meals to those requiring specialized care. These foods include various formats, such as ready-to-eat and frozen meals, ensuring accessibility for everyone.

Key Features of Beef Porridge

1. Taste of Yoshinoya's Famous Beef Bowl: The new beef porridge recreates the delectable flavors of Yoshinoya's renowned beef bowls while maintaining a focus on being easy to eat and low in sodium.

2. Room Temperature Convenience: Responding to customer requests for easy-to-store products, the porridge comes in a shelf-stable format, allowing for simple storage and portability.

3. Ready to Eat: The beef porridge can be enjoyed straight from the pouch without heating or, for those who prefer, it can be warm by immersing the sealed pouch in boiling water for 4-5 minutes.

Where to Find It

You can purchase the Beef Porridge directly through the Yoshinoya Official Online Store and other retailers such as the Nichidai Online Store and Askul, with various packaging options available:

• - 2 bags for 972 JPY
• - 10 bags for 2,916 JPY
• - 20 bags for 4,968 JPY
• - Sample pack (4 different meals) for 1,944 JPY

Available at Nichiadai and Askul.

Expert Opinions

Professor Gen Tobara, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo University

In the field of elderly dysphagia rehabilitation, the act of eating, chewing, and swallowing represents a vital force for life. "Yoshinoya's Gentle Meals®" truly brings joy to the dining experience. I was amazed that it retains the flavorful essence of Yoshinoya's beef bowl, making it practical for the elderly living alone. With 1 kcal per gram, it’s efficient for energy intake, especially useful in emergencies. Adding toppings like cheese or soft-boiled eggs can enhance both nutrition and flavor, rekindling the enjoyment of eating for those who might struggle with appetite.

Junko Shionozaki, Home Nutrition Specialist

As Japan approaches a super-aged society, the demand for home healthcare is projected to peak by 2040. While "curative medicine" is essential, there's a growing need for supporting healthcare for those living with chronic illnesses or disabilities. The increasing push for early hospital discharges, combined with full nursing care facilities, means care will need to shift to homes and community settings. The Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare encourages older adults to maintain nutritional balance and active lifestyles. "Yoshinoya's Gentle Meals®" represents a user-focused innovation to aid those whose chewing and swallowing abilities may have declined. Its ease of preparation without heating makes it an excellent choice for older adults with cognitive challenges who are hesitant to use cooking appliances. By adapting to an aging society, Yoshinoya is poised to significantly impact Japan's culinary landscape and alleviate the burden of home caregiving.

About Yoshinoya's Gentle Meals®

Launched in February 2017, "Yoshinoya's Gentle Meals®" was developed with the motto of being delicious, soft, and easy to eat. The series caters not only to the elderly but also to anyone facing difficulties with chewing or swallowing due to various reasons, ensuring everyone can enjoy flavorful meals.

For more information and to explore the range, visit the official Yoshinoya Gentle Meals® page.