Calbee, Inc. Boosts Snack Portfolio with Majority Stake Acquisition in Tofu Innovator Hodo

Calbee, Inc. has made a significant move by acquiring a majority stake in Hodo, Inc., a U.S.-based tofu and plant-based food company. This acquisition not only marks Calbee’s entry into the booming plant-based market in the U.S. but also aims to boost its growth in international food and health sectors. Additionally, Sagamiya Foods Co., Ltd., a tofu maker from Japan, will take a minority stake in Hodo.

According to Calbee CEO Makoto Ehara, the demand for sustainable foods is rising rapidly. Tofu, known for its high plant-based protein and minimal processing, is gaining traction among health-oriented consumers. “Our vision is to create a global portfolio of foods that are both enjoyable and meaningful,” Ehara said. The integration of Hodo into Calbee is seen as a crucial step in enhancing their Food and Health business and expanding their reach globally.

Hodo, which started in 2004 and is based in Oakland, California, stands out as a leader in tofu production. They use organic, non-GMO soybeans and a special method that preserves the tofu’s flavor while maintaining a firm texture.

Calbee’s “Change 2025” initiative, launched in February 2023, outlines overseas expansion as a key growth strategy, with the U.S. at the forefront. The plan also emphasizes promoting healthy lifestyles through innovative food solutions.

Interestingly, the plant-based food movement is supported by recent data. According to a report by The Good Food Institute, U.S. retail sales of plant-based foods reached over $7 billion in 2021, showing a 27% increase over the previous year. This indicates a growing shift in consumer preferences towards healthier and more sustainable options.

Moreover, social media trends reveal that many people are excited about plant-based diets. Hashtags like #PlantBased and #TofuLove are trending, with users sharing recipes and health benefits, further pushing the plant-based narrative.

Sagamiya’s role in this transition is key, as they plan to offer technical support to help grow tofu culture in the U.S. Their commitment to leveraging traditional tofu-making practices while innovating new products speaks to the demand for high-quality, diverse plant-based options. This partnership signifies a promising future for both Calbee and Hodo in a rapidly evolving market.

For more on the growth of plant-based foods, check out The Good Food Institute’s latest findings here.

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