#Japan #Tokyo #Shohei Ohtani #FamilyMart #Smile Onigiri

Shohei Ohtani's Delicious New Onigiri

In an exciting collaboration with FamilyMart, Shohei Ohtani is set to launch a unique onigiri called "Big Onigiri with Ume and Okaka" on July 1, 2025. This special edition onigiri is designed to celebrate what the baseball star loves most, and a portion of its sales will go towards the "Smile Onigiri Project," a social initiative aimed at supporting children's welfare.

The Onigiri That Makes a Difference

The "Big Onigiri with Ume and Okaka" will retail for 297 yen (tax included: 320 yen). It combines two of Ohtani's favorite onigiri fillings: the tangy ume (plum) and savory okaka (bonito flakes). This onigiri is not just a tasty snack but also a part of a larger mission to make a positive impact on society.

Created as part of FamilyMart's ongoing commitment to five key themes, the introduction of this product signifies a step towards supporting children’s nutritional needs. A percentage of sales will be donated to a recognized non-profit organization, Musubie, which operates children's cafeterias across Japan. The project aims not only to provide meals for children in need but also to offer onigiri to young athletes participating in club activities nationwide.

Supporting Young Athletes

Athletes often require quick and nutritious snacks that can replenish their energy during practice sessions. This is where the onigiri shines as a perfect solution. With the launch of the "Big Onigiri with Ume and Okaka," FamilyMart will run a campaign to support these young athletes. The initiative encourages club teams to apply for onigiri donations, ensuring that they have access to healthy snacks during crucial practice times.

Application Period and Guidelines

• - Duration: July 1, 2025 - July 21, 2025
• - Eligibility: Any clubs or organizations affiliated with elementary, junior high, or high schools in Japan are welcome to apply.
• - Prize: Selected clubs will receive two onigiri for each team member for 17 different clubs.

By participating, teams can share the joy of receiving delicious onigiri while also contributing to the larger cause of charitable support for children.

Collaborating with Musubie

Since September 2021, FamilyMart has been working alongside Musubie in the "FamilyMart Connect, Supporting Children’s Cafeterias Project." This initiative provides grants not only to sustain existing cafeterias but also to help establish new ones. The sales from the new onigiri will further bolster this supportive framework.

For more information regarding donation structures or how to get involved, visit the official page of the FamilyMart Connect initiative here.

Insights from Ohtani's Culinary Choices

Ohtani’s influence extends beyond the baseball field into the kitchen, where his preferences have driven the creation of this new onigiri. In previous interviews, he has shared that ume and okaka are among his favorite fillings. The new product reflects a careful balance between these flavors, offering a simple yet satisfying taste that resonates with fans of all ages.

The onigiri is 1.5 times the size of standard hand-rolled varieties, packed with rich flavors that combine the sweetness of okaka with the refreshing tartness of ume. It's a culinary homage to Ohtani's roots and an exciting addition to FamilyMart's offerings.

A Commitment to Community

FamilyMart's slogan, "With You, Convenience with FamilyMart," highlights their dedication to maintaining connections within communities. By introducing such initiatives and collaborations, they aim to create a platform that not only serves customers but also enhances well-being across the nation.

As the launch date approaches, fans and customers alike are encouraged to participate in this journey of healthy eating and community support, making the "Big Onigiri with Ume and Okaka" a delicious choice for a meaningful cause.