On January 19, 2026, Japanese snack maker Oyatsu Company launched a new product sure to capture the hearts of convenience store fans. It’s the latest addition to the “Baby Star Ramen Maru” series, which features bite-sized balls made from the long-beloved Japanese dried noodle snack “Baby Star Ramen.”This time, “Baby Star Ramen Maru (Rich Plum Flavor)” has been released, evoking the arrival of spring in Japan. Plum (Ume) is a traditional fruit representing Japan, and its sourness is beloved by many Japanese people.
Product Details and Purchase Information
The newly released “Baby Star Ramen Maru (Rich Ume Flavor)” began rolling out nationwide at convenience stores in Japan starting Monday, January 19, 2026. While the price is open, the estimated retail price is around 168 yen (approx. $1.15 USD) including tax. Its affordable pricing is another appealing feature.The net weight is 59 grams (about 2.1 ounces), making it the perfect size for a quick snack during work breaks or when you’re feeling a little peckish.
Authentic Japanese Plum Flavor
The standout feature of this product, as the name suggests, is its “rich plum flavor.” It’s not just a matter of sprinkling plum-flavored powder on the surface. “Plum paste” is kneaded directly into the noodle dough itself.This means that with every bite, the refreshing tartness and rich aroma of the plum itself spreads throughout your mouth. It’s not just a superficial seasoning; the sourness that slowly seeps out from deep within the ingredients creates a deeply satisfying finish for plum flavor lovers.
Three Stages of Texture
The Baby Star Ramen Maru series is known for its uniquely satisfying texture. This characteristic remains strong in the “Rich Plum Flavor” version.The moment it enters your mouth, you experience a firm, crisp “crunch.” As you chew further, the noodles break down, transforming into a crispy “crunchy” texture. Finally, you enjoy the sensation of it gently “melting” away in your mouth. This three-stage rhythm, combined with the plum’s tartness, creates an addictive quality that makes you reach for more and more.
Perfect for “Multitasking Eating” While Using Your Smartphone
Now, let’s explain the functionality of the “Ramen Ball” shape. Regular Baby Star Ramen noodles are loose, making them prone to spilling or requiring you to pick up small pieces. However, this “ball” type shapes the noodles into bite-sized portions, allowing you to simply pop them into your mouth.
This shape is optimized for “multitasking eating”—snacking while using your smartphone or working on a computer. The new “Rich Plum Flavor” is especially perfect for refreshing breaks during work or study. The tartness from the citric acid in the plum should help perk up a tired mind. It’s less messy, doesn’t stain your fingers, and doesn’t scatter, making it a functional snack ideal for today’s busy lifestyles.
Packaging that evokes the feeling of Japanese spring
Though the calendar still marks a cold season, Japanese convenience store shelves are already showing signs of spring.When plum-flavored snacks appear, many Japanese people feel “spring is just around the corner.” This “Baby Star Ramen Maru (Rich Plum Flavor)” has a refreshing quality perfect for this seasonal transition. Its packaging features a vibrant design dominated by pink and red, brightening your mood just by looking at it. When visiting Japan, be sure to look for this product at your nearest convenience store. As it’s a limited-time item, we recommend trying it right away if you find it.
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