Japan’s popular convenience store chain Ministop is launching an astonishing collaboration product. On Friday, January 16, 2026, Ministop’s signature hit item, the “X-shaped French Fries,” partnered with Japanese snack maker Oyatsu Company’s iconic snack “Baby Star Ramen.”
The new product is named “X-shaped French Fries Baby Star Ramen Chicken Flavor.” Just hearing the name conjures images of rich chicken umami and fluffy potato texture. This is a powerful new hot snack fans can’t wait to try.
Details of the Miracle Collaboration
The star of this collaboration, “X Fried Potato Baby Star Ramen Chicken Flavor,” will be available in limited quantities at Ministop stores nationwide. It’s affordably priced at 348 yen (375.84 yen including tax). The release date is Friday, January 16, 2026—perfect timing for weekend enjoyment. The calorie count is 337kcal. It offers satisfying volume, perfect as either a snack or a light meal.
The standout feature of this product is its “season yourself” style, where you add the seasoning right before eating. Upon purchase, you receive the following three items:
- X Fried Potatoes in a dedicated container
- Special “Chicken Flavor Powder”
- Paper bag
Just before eating, you place the potatoes and powder into the paper bag yourself. Then, shake the bag vigorously to evenly distribute the powder before enjoying. This process itself is a fun, event-like experience. The dedicated container also features Baby Star’s mascot character, “Hoshio-kun.” The visual design is packed with the atmosphere of this collaboration. (*The dedicated container is limited in quantity; once it runs out, the regular container will be used.)
Taste Structure and Craftsmanship
“X-Fried Potatoes” are unique fries with an “X” cross-section, true to their name. This shape increases the surface area exposed to oil, delivering a crisper texture than regular fries. At the same time, the thick center retains the potato’s natural fluffy texture. It’s the ultimate potato, offering the delightful contrast of “crisp” and “fluffy.”
Adding to this is the “Chicken-Flavored Powder,” co-developed with Otsuka Snack Company. This powder was created to evoke the chicken flavor of “Baby Star Ramen,” a snack hugely popular with Japanese children. It stands apart from simple salt or consommé flavors. Its signature is the concentrated umami of chicken, the sweetness of vegetables, and the savory aroma of soy sauce. This complex blend of “that flavor” is activated by the heat and oil of freshly fried X-Fried Potatoes, coating the entire potato.
Just imagine it. The moment you bite into the crispy potato, the rich depth of the oil spreads alongside Baby Star’s signature savory chicken aroma that hits your nose. This is undoubtedly an addictive taste that will make you unable to stop eating.
Two Must-See Campaigns
To coincide with this launch, Ministop is also running great value campaigns.
The first is the “Great Value Set Discount.” The period runs from Friday, January 16, 2026, to Thursday, January 29, 2026. Buy the new “X Fried Potatoes Baby Star Ramen Chicken Flavor” and the snack “Baby Star Ramen Chicken Flavor Big” together as a set to get ¥22 off the base price. Enjoy the “Baby Star-flavored potatoes” while snacking on the “original Baby Star” at a great price.
The second campaign is exclusive to users of the Ministop smartphone app. Scan your app member barcode when purchasing eligible items for a chance to win an “Oyatsu Company Snack Assortment” in a lottery drawing. Twenty winners will be selected. If you frequently use Japanese convenience stores and have the app, don’t forget to scan.
The Appeal of Winter Hot Snacks
During January’s bitter cold, the “Hot Snacks” corner beside the register at Japanese convenience stores holds a special appeal. The warmth and satisfying heft you feel the moment you receive your order soothes your chilled body. The aroma of freshly fried potatoes and chicken powder wafting up when you open the bag. The moments spent nibbling on the potatoes on your way home, or with slightly cold hands, are small winter joys.
This collaboration is a natural pairing that maximizes the potential of X Fried Potatoes. It’s recommended for potato fans, Baby Star fans, and anyone craving a rich, intense flavor. Since it’s a limited-time offering, we suggest checking it out soon if you’re interested. Head to your nearest Ministop and experience the taste of this “ultimate combo” for yourself.
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