ORDER EGGS WHOLESALE IN JAPAN
Eggs Unlimited is one of the leading suppliers of eggs in Japan. Our partnerships with domestic and international egg producers enable us to service your egg needs.
When you order eggs from Eggs Unlimited, you source your eggs from a leading worldwide supplier. Our Japanese supply network helps customers create a more diverse and secure supply-chain. The Eggs Unlimited team has superior market reach and insight, so that producers have an outlet for their products and buyers receive competitive pricing.
Eggs Unlimited has dedicated teams to manage all aspects of a transition, ensure timely pickup, deliveries, and payment through direct ACH deposits. Our customers get peace of mind that they have a team of market experts helping to manage their inventory positions and monitor the market in real-time, with a historical vantage from decades of experience.
FAQs
Where does Japan import eggs?
Japan imports eggs and egg products to supplement its domestic production and meet high consumer demand. The primary sources of these imports include:
- United States: About 37% of Japan’s egg imports
- China: Approximately 11.4% of Japan’s egg imports
- Thailand: About 10.3% of Japan’s egg imports
- Brazil: Around 8.63% of the import
- Argentina: Around 7.86% of Japan’s egg imports
These imports primarily consist of powdered eggs, which are extensively used in Japan’s food processing industry. About 90% of Japan’s egg imports are in powdered form, sourced mainly from Italy, the Netherlands, and the United States.
Import volumes and sources can fluctuate due to domestic production levels, international trade policies, and health regulations related to poultry diseases. To learn more, contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com.
What makes eggs in Japan compliant?
In Japan, eggs must comply with stringent food safety, quality, and traceability standards to ensure they are safe for consumption. These standards are primarily regulated by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) and the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare (MHLW).
1. Food Safety and Hygiene Standards
- Salmonella-Free Eggs: Japan requires eggs to be Salmonella-free at the time of sale. Farms and producers must regularly test hens, feed, and eggs for Salmonella enteritidis and other contaminants.
- Clean and Sanitized Eggs: Eggs are washed, sanitized, and dried before reaching consumers. This minimizes contamination risks.
- HACCP Certification: Producers must adopt HACCP protocols to identify and control food safety risks during egg production and processing.
2. Traceability and Labeling Requirements
- Eggs must be traceable from farm to market with records of farm origin, batch numbers, and production/packing dates.
- Packaging must include producer/distributor info, sell-by or best-before date, and storage recommendations.
3. Grading and Quality Standards
- JAS (Japanese Agricultural Standards): Ensures high-quality eggs based on shell strength, cleanliness, and internal quality.
- Common grades: S (Small), M (Medium), L (Large), LL (Extra-Large).
4. Production Standards
- Hens are raised under hygienic and biosecure conditions to minimize disease risks.
- Feed quality is regulated to ensure balanced nutrition and avoid contamination.
5. Import Regulations
- Imported eggs must meet Japan’s strict food safety and labeling requirements, including sanitary certificates from exporting countries.
- Evidence must show eggs are free from pathogens like Avian Influenza and Salmonella.
6. Temperature Control and Refrigeration
Eggs in Japan are typically stored and transported under refrigeration to ensure freshness and safety. This cold chain system minimizes bacterial growth and extends shelf life.
Key Regulatory Agencies:
MAFF – Oversees agricultural production and egg quality standards.
MHLW – Enforces food safety laws and hygiene regulations.
JAS – Certifies eggs that meet Japanese Agricultural Standards for quality.
Japan’s rigorous standards ensure that eggs are among the safest and highest-quality in the world. Eggs Unlimited is here to help with any compliance and regulation needs. For more information contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com.
Summary: What Makes Eggs Compliant in Japan?
- Free from Salmonella and other contaminants.
- Fully traceable with proper records.
- Washed, sanitized, and labeled accurately.
- Graded according to size and quality under JAS standards.
- Compliant with strict hygiene, biosecurity, and refrigeration protocols.
- Imports must include sanitary certifications from exporting countries.
Japan’s rigorous standards ensure that eggs are among the safest and highest-quality in the world. Eggs Unlimited is here to help with any compliance and regulation needs. For more information contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com
Who is the largest supplier of eggs in Japan?
In Japan, Ise Foods Inc. is recognized as the largest supplier of eggs, managing a flock of about 20 million laying hens and operating across Japan, China, and the United States. Kewpie Corporation is another major player, particularly in egg-based products. Additionally, Hanwa Co., Ltd. is involved in vertically integrated egg operations.
These companies help meet Japan’s high domestic demand for eggs, with the average person consuming about 320 eggs per year. If you need more detailed information about Japan’s egg industry and wholesale egg supplies, contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com.
How much do eggs cost in Japan?
Common Egg Carton Sizes in Japan
- 10 Eggs (Standard Carton): Most common size for retail, found in supermarkets and convenience stores.
- 6 Eggs (Small Carton): Popular for single-person households or premium/specialty eggs.
- 12 Eggs (Larger Carton): Less common but available in bigger stores for value packs.
- 15 Eggs (Bulk Option): A cost-effective choice, often in discount stores or wholesale markets.
- 30 Eggs (Tray Format): Standard in commercial/foodservice use (bakeries, restaurants, etc.).
Japanese egg cartons often use recycled molded pulp or transparent plastic (PET) for visibility. Specialty or premium eggs may come in smaller cartons with enhanced branding or even gift packaging.
If you need more information on carton suppliers, specific regulations, and egg pricing, Eggs Unlimited can directly connect you with these sources for wholesale purchasing needs. eusales@eggsunlimited.com
How to sell commercial eggs in Japan?
Selling commercial eggs in Japan requires adherence to strict regulations, quality standards, and market-specific practices to ensure product safety, traceability, and success. Below is a step-by-step guide:
1. Meet Regulatory Standards
- Sanitary and Safety Compliance: Comply with MAFF and MHLW regulations. Eggs must be Salmonella-free, and facilities should follow HACCP protocols.
- Traceability Standards: Full traceability from farm to table, with detailed production and distribution records.
- JAS Certification: Eggs must meet Japanese Agricultural Standards for grading, size, and quality.
- Packaging and Labeling Compliance: Contact Eggs Unlimited for the most up-to-date regulatory requirements.
2. Choose Your Market Channels
- Supermarkets and Retail Chains: Partner with major retailers like Aeon or Ito-Yokado.
- Wholesale Markets: Sell in bulk at markets like Toyosu for distribution to retailers and foodservice.
- Foodservice Industry: Supply restaurants, bakeries, and hotels. Focus on processed eggs for industrial use.
- Direct-to-Consumer: Utilize e-commerce platforms (Rakuten, Amazon Japan) for household sales.
3. Focus on Quality and Specialization
- Highlight premium features like organic, cage-free, or omega-3 enrichment.
- Obtain relevant certifications (JAS, Certified Humane) to assure consumers of safety and quality.
- Use packaging that appeals to Japanese aesthetics, especially for specialty eggs.
4. Build Relationships with Local Partners
- Collaborate with established distributors and importers.
- Attend trade fairs like Foodex Japan and the Supermarket Trade Show to expand your network.
5. Competitive Pricing and Marketing
- Conduct market research to set competitive prices.
- Emphasize freshness, safety, and sustainability in your marketing efforts.
6. Maintain a Cold Chain Supply
Refrigeration is essential throughout the supply chain to preserve egg freshness and meet Japanese standards.
Selling eggs commercially in the Japanese market requires a deep understanding of regulatory compliance, food safety, and commercial distribution. It’s advisable to work closely with relevant government agencies and seek expert advice to ensure your commercial egg business operates legally and successfully. Contact Eggs Unlimited today! eusales@eggsunlimited.com
Summary Checklist for Selling Commercial Eggs in Japan
| Requirement | Details |
| Regulations | MAFF, JAS standards, and Salmonella-free compliance. |
| Import Requirements | Sanitary certification and safety inspections. |
| Traceability | End-to-end traceability from farm to consumer. |
| Quality Standards | Grading (S, M, L, LL), cleanliness, and freshness. |
| Market Channels | Retail, wholesale, foodservice, and e-commerce. |
| Specialty Products | Organic, cage-free, or value-added eggs, frozen eggs, dried eggs, powdered eggs, liquid eggs, etc. |
| Cold Chain Management | Ensure refrigeration during transport/storage. |
Selling eggs commercially in the Japanese market requires a deep understanding of regulatory compliance, food safety, and the commercial distribution process. It’s advisable to work closely with relevant government agencies and seek expert advice to ensure your commercial egg business operates legally and successfully. Contact Eggs Unlimited today! eusales@eggsunlimited.com
EGG CERTIFICATIONS IN Japan
JAS Certification (Japanese Agricultural Standards)
- Overseen by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF).
- Eggs certified under JAS meet standards for:
- Size and Grading: Eggs are categorized (e.g., S, M, L, LL) based on weight and quality.
- Food Safety: Ensures eggs are clean, free from defects, and meet hygiene standards.
- Labeling Requirements: Packaging must include the producer name, production date, best-before date, and storage recommendations.
JAS certification is mandatory for agricultural products, including eggs, and is essential for both domestic producers and importers.
HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) Certification
- Japanese egg producers must implement HACCP systems to manage food safety risks during egg production, processing, and distribution.
- HACCP ensures that:
- Eggs are free from Salmonella and other contaminants.
- Critical control points (CCPs), such as cleaning, sanitization, and refrigeration, are monitored.
Organic Certification
- Organic eggs in Japan are certified under the JAS Organic Standard.
- Hens must be raised without synthetic feed, antibiotics, or hormones.
- The production process must follow strict guidelines for environmental sustainability and animal welfare.
Animal Welfare Certifications
- Certified Humane®: An international certification ensuring hens are raised in cage-free or enriched environments.
- Producers must meet criteria for:
- Adequate space, perches, and nests.
- Proper feed and healthcare.
- Freedom to express natural behaviors.
- Reduced stress and humane handling.
Specialty Certifications
Omega-3 Enriched Eggs: Certifications for eggs produced with specialized feed to increase nutritional value.
Cage-Free or Free-Range Certifications: Increasingly popular to meet consumer demand for ethical products.
WHY EGGS UNLIMITED?
Eggs Unlimited is one of the leading global suppliers of conventional eggs. We have the experience and market knowledge to help save our customers time and money. We work with some of the largest egg producers, retailers, distributors, foodservice organizations, QSRs, and processors in the US and around the world. They trust us to provide competitive prices and take care of logistics from pickup to delivery.
We act as an extension of our customers’ procurement or sales teams, creating value, providing solutions, and delivering promptly. The company is built on family values, and we strive to work harder than anyone in the industry to service the needs of our customers.
LET’S DISCUSS YOUR JAPANESE EGG MARKET STRATEGY TODAY!
Get in touch with the Eggs Unlimited Sales team to discover all your conventional egg options.
Call: 1-888-554-3977
E-mail: eusales@eggsunlimited.com