Top 5 Popular Japanese Plant-Based Products
Plant-based foods are gaining popularity in Japan, driven by increasing health awareness and environmental concerns. Once considered niche and mainly for vegans or vegetarians, these products are now part of everyday life, from café menus to convenience store shelves.
In this article, we’ll introduce five of the most popular plant-based products trending in Japan right now. The ranking is based on Google Trends data from the past year and reflects the topics that consumers are searching for most frequently. We’ll take a closer look at what’s behind each trend and why these items are getting so much attention.
Ranking of Top Plant-Based Products in Japan
(*Based on Google search data from the past 12 months, as of June 13, 2025)
- Almond milk
- Oat milk
- Coconut milk
- Soy meat
- Tofu bars
1. Almond Milk
Known for its smooth texture and mild sweetness, almond milk has become a staple in many households. One standout product is Glico’s Almond Koka (Almond Effect), which sold over 700 million units in 2024. It’s low in sugar and calories, rich in vitamin E, and easy to enjoy on its own or in drinks like coffee or smoothies. With the growing availability at major café chains like Starbucks, almond milk has transitioned from a trend to a staple for many health-conscious consumers.
2. Oat Milk
Oat milk continues to gain ground alongside almond milk. Global brands like Alpro and OATLY, as well as Japanese newcomers like MyProtein, are driving its growth. Oat milk lattes are especially popular in cafés, thanks to the drink’s creamy texture and natural sweetness. It’s also great for cooking or baking. As more café chains—such as Starbucks and Blue Bottle Coffee—add oat milk to their menus, it’s becoming a go-to choice for people in their 20s and 30s who care about both wellness and sustainability.
3. Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is making a quiet comeback in Japan. Known for its tropical flavor and rich mouthfeel, it’s used in curries, soups, and desserts—but now also appears in ready-to-drink formats. Convenience stores like Lawson and Natural Lawson offer coconut milk smoothies and beverages, which appeal to those focused on beauty and wellness. It’s also a great dairy-free option for people exploring international flavors.
4. Soy Meat
As interest in eco-friendly and healthier diets grows, soy-based meat is gaining a foothold in mainstream meals. The Japanese startup Next Meats is helping lead the way, and convenience stores like Lawson and FamilyMart now offer soy meat–based bentos and side dishes. Soy meat has a satisfying texture and high protein content, making it a practical meat alternative, even for those who aren’t fully vegetarian. Many consumers are simply cutting back on meat by choosing soy-based options one or two times a week, making it an easy entry point into a plant-based diet.
5. Tofu Bars
Tofu bars, especially 7-Eleven’s TOFU BAR line, have become a surprise hit. Popular among gym-goers and individuals seeking high-protein snacks, these bars are convenient, healthy, and easy to grab on the go. By 2023, more than 50 million units had been sold. By transforming traditional tofu into a modern, portable format, these products are reshaping how tofu is perceived, making it more accessible for today’s busy lifestyles.
Conclusion
Plant-based foods are no longer a passing trend in Japan. They’re becoming part of everyday eating habits. Rather than completely eliminating animal products, many people are simply opting for more plant-based options here and there. The products highlighted here are easy to find and simple to try, whether you’re looking for something healthy, eco-friendly, or just a little different. It’s never been easier to add plant-based choices to your daily routine.
