FamilyMart, a major Japanese convenience store chain, is launching a new product that could change eating habits. On January 13, 2026, three types of “frozen onigiri” will be released for early sale in Japan’s Hokuriku region (Toyama, Ishikawa, and Fukui prefectures).Simply microwave these products to enjoy warm, freshly cooked-tasting onigiri (rice balls, Japan’s soul food) anytime.
Reducing Food Waste While Boosting Convenience
This new product is part of a larger initiative FamilyMart has been advancing in Japan’s Hokuriku region since September 2025. To improve delivery efficiency and reduce food waste, the company shifted onigiri and bento deliveries to a twice-daily schedule. Alongside this change, sales of “frozen bento” began, ensuring stable product availability at all times. These “frozen onigiri” further strengthen this approach.
Frozen foods with extended shelf life reduce store waste. Simultaneously, they offer consumers the major benefit of being able to eat what they want, when they want. Particularly during late-night or early-morning hours when product selection is limited, this product provides freshly made, warm rice balls. Storing them in your home freezer also helps with sudden meal preparations.
Preparation is extremely simple. Just open the bag slightly and heat it in the microwave. This creates fluffy rice balls that taste like they’ve just been cooked. They’ll be a versatile addition to various occasions: as a late-night snack during overtime, for weekend brunch, or as part of your daily meals.
Three Classic Popular Flavors
This release features three classic flavors that are extremely popular as onigiri fillings.Made with the same domestic rice used in regular chilled (refrigerated) rice balls, there’s no compromise on taste despite being a frozen food.
Frozen Onigiri with Grilled Salmon
First up is the classic “Frozen Onigiri with Grilled Salmon.” Priced at 184 yen (198 yen including tax).Salmon is one of the most popular choices for onigiri fillings. The flaked, savory grilled salmon blends perfectly with warm rice, releasing a rich umami flavor that fills your mouth.
Frozen Onigiri with Nanko Ume Plum
Next up is the “Frozen Onigiri with Nanko Ume Plum,” known for its refreshing taste. The price is 184 yen (198 yen including tax). This product uses “Nanko Ume,” a premium brand of pickled plum. Its characteristic is not just sourness, but a balance of mellow acidity and deep umami.Heating brings out the sweetness of the rice, while the refreshing flavor of the plum stimulates your appetite.
Frozen Onigiri with Makombu Kelp
Lastly, we introduce the “Frozen Onigiri with Makombu Kelp,” offering a taste of traditional Japanese flavor.Priced at 184 yen (198 yen including tax). The filling features tsukudani (sweet-salty simmered dish made with soy sauce and sugar) of Makombu kelp, known for its robust umami. When eaten with warm rice, the gentle sweetness and briny aroma of the kelp spread, evoking a nostalgic feeling.
Summary
FamilyMart’s new “Frozen Rice Balls” will be available starting Tuesday, January 13, 2026, in the Hokuriku region of Japan (Toyama, Ishikawa, and Fukui Prefectures).
This innovative initiative offers a more convenient option for our daily meals while also being environmentally friendly. Residents of the Hokuriku region are encouraged to experience this new convenience and deliciousness. A future nationwide rollout is anticipated.
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