Cultural Awareness Series ～Tastes of Japan | The Rise of Japanese Food Brands in America～
2025/10/7
On September 29, Deputy Consul General Kamitani participated in “Taste of Japan | The Rise of Japanese Food Brands in America,” the first installment of the Cultural Awareness Series hosted by JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles in partnership with MUFG Bank.
This event explored the history, strategies, and success stories of Japanese companies entering the U.S. market, inviting people from all backgrounds to discover the rich traditions and perspectives that shape our global community. As the inaugural event, it featured a panel discussion bringing together leaders from three pioneering Japanese food companies active in the U.S. to explore how Japanese food became beloved in American culinary culture.
Following opening remarks, Deputy Consul General Kamitani in her remarks highlighted how the current widespread acceptance of Japanese food culture here is due to the dedicated efforts of many Japanese pioneers. She looked forward to exploring more about the history of Japanese cuisine in the U.S. and hearing the untold stories of Japanese food companies.
Subsequently, Chief Executive Director Kajita of JETRO's Los Angeles office presented on the expansion and export of Japanese food. This was followed by a panel discussion featuring three executives: Ms. Kanai, Vice President of Mutual Trading Co.; Mr. Huff, President ond CEO of Nissin Foods USA; and Mr. Ozawa, President of Otafuku Foods.
Vice President Kanai shared insights from her father, the founder Mr. Noritoshi Kanai, discussing the origins of introducing sushi to the U.S., the subsequent expansion into the restaurant business, and adapting business strategies to changing social conditions.
President and CEO Huff discussed the history of Nissin Foods and cup noodles, highlighting the global proliferation of instant noodles today. President Ozawa spoke about Otafuku's mission to spread okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake) culture in the U.S. market and the journey of expanding into the U.S. as one of Japan's leading seasoning manufacturers.
Following the panel discussion, a networking reception was held, bringing together the speakers and attendees.
This event explored the history, strategies, and success stories of Japanese companies entering the U.S. market, inviting people from all backgrounds to discover the rich traditions and perspectives that shape our global community. As the inaugural event, it featured a panel discussion bringing together leaders from three pioneering Japanese food companies active in the U.S. to explore how Japanese food became beloved in American culinary culture.
Following opening remarks, Deputy Consul General Kamitani in her remarks highlighted how the current widespread acceptance of Japanese food culture here is due to the dedicated efforts of many Japanese pioneers. She looked forward to exploring more about the history of Japanese cuisine in the U.S. and hearing the untold stories of Japanese food companies.
Subsequently, Chief Executive Director Kajita of JETRO's Los Angeles office presented on the expansion and export of Japanese food. This was followed by a panel discussion featuring three executives: Ms. Kanai, Vice President of Mutual Trading Co.; Mr. Huff, President ond CEO of Nissin Foods USA; and Mr. Ozawa, President of Otafuku Foods.
Vice President Kanai shared insights from her father, the founder Mr. Noritoshi Kanai, discussing the origins of introducing sushi to the U.S., the subsequent expansion into the restaurant business, and adapting business strategies to changing social conditions.
President and CEO Huff discussed the history of Nissin Foods and cup noodles, highlighting the global proliferation of instant noodles today. President Ozawa spoke about Otafuku's mission to spread okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake) culture in the U.S. market and the journey of expanding into the U.S. as one of Japan's leading seasoning manufacturers.
Following the panel discussion, a networking reception was held, bringing together the speakers and attendees.
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| Remarks by Deputy Consul General Naoko Kamitani |
Presentation by JETRO Chief Executive Director Kajita Akira |
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| Panel discussion with Ms. Atsuko Kanai, Vice President of Mutual Trading Co. |
Panel discussion with Mr. Brian Huff, President and CEO of Nissin Foods USA |
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| Panel discussion with Mr. Taka Ozawa, President of Otafuku Foods |