Calbee, one of Japan’s leading snack manufacturers, is releasing a unique new product perfect for the new year. Its name is ‘Crisp Ume Hoshi Flavor.’ This is a limited-time flavor from the ‘Crisp’ line of shaped potato chips, which are popular for their unique satisfyingly crunchy texture.
But this isn’t just another ume-flavored snack. It comes with a playful twist: lucky “Hoshi-gata” (star-shaped) crisps are randomly hidden inside each bag. These will be available for pre-release at Konbini stores all across Japan starting January 12, 2026.
The Hidden Wordplay in “Ume Hoshi Flavor”
The charm of “Crisp Ume Hoshi Flavor” lies first and foremost in its taste. It boasts a sweet, sour, and sharp flavor reminiscent of “Umeboshi” (pickled plums), a traditional Japanese preserved food. The saltiness exquisitely enhances the refreshing acidity of the plum, making it a snack you won’t be able to put down.
The word “Hoshi” in the product name actually holds a clever double meaning. First, it refers to the “star” (星, hoshi) shape of the special crisps. Second, it evokes the sound of “Umeboshi” (梅干し), the pickled plums essential to Japanese cuisine. This witty naming is a nod to Japanese pop culture and makes the snack even more enjoyable once you’re in on the joke.
A Wish Granted if You Find One? The Lucky “Hoshi-Gata Crisp”
The main fun of this product is the hunt for the “Hoshi-gata Crisps” randomly packed in each bag. In line with the catchphrase, “Find one and your wish might come true?!”, there’s a culture in Japan where finding an unusually shaped piece in a bag of snacks is considered a “lucky item” and a cause for celebration.
“Crisp Ume Hoshi Flavor” offers this delightful experience of searching for a small treasure. It could be fun to open a bag with friends and family to see who can find the first lucky star. This playful spirit adds a level of entertainment that makes it more than just a snack.
The Secret Behind the Signature “Zakutto” Crunch of Crisp
One reason the “Crisp” series is so beloved by fans is its unique texture. Unlike traditional potato chips made from sliced raw potatoes, shaped potato chips like “Crisp” are created by forming potato flakes from dehydrated potatoes.
This method results in their uniform shape and a firmer, heartier texture described as “zakutto” (a satisfying crunch). This substantial bite pairs perfectly with the sweet and sour ume flavor, creating a deliciousness that keeps you coming back for more.
Product Details and Sales Information
The specific details for “Crisp Ume Hoshi Flavor” are as follows:
Product Name: Crisp Ume Hoshi Flavor
Contents: 45g
Price: Open price (expected to be around 140 JPY, tax included, in stores)
Release Schedule:
The product will be released in two stages. First, a pre-release will begin at Konbini stores all across Japan starting on Monday, January 12, 2026. Afterwards, starting Monday, February 2, 2026, they will also be sold at stores other than Konbini, such as supermarkets.
This is a limited-time product available until mid-June 2026, so be sure to look for it if you’re visiting Japan. Please note, however, that availability may vary by store, and sales will end once the product is sold out.
You can find these unique and tasty potato crisps at Konbini and supermarkets across Japan. Why not pick up a bag as a memento of your trip and for the simple fun of trying to find your own lucky star?
Source (Japanese): 新春にピッタリ みつけたら願いが叶う!?ホシ型がランダムに入ったザクッと食感と梅の酸味が楽しめる成型ポテトチップス『クリスプ 梅ホシ味』
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