*1 Based on sales value in the commercial frozen and chilled gyoza market, 1997-2025 fiscal years, total frozen gyoza by Ajinomoto Co., Inc. (total manufacturers), according to our company's research.

Ajinomoto Frozen Foods Co., Ltd. (President: Yoshichika Minami, Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo) will launch "AJINOMOTO BRAND GYOZA" <Mandu> and <Mandu for Microwave> nationwide on Sunday, June 7, 2026. These products incorporate the characteristics of Mandu, known as Korean dumplings, using five types of vegetables, vermicelli, and tofu in the filling, and were developed using our company's unique technology to allow Japanese households to easily enjoy them.

<Mandu> <Mandu for Microwave>

Growing Interest in Korean Cuisine

In recent years, interest in Korean cuisine has been growing in Japan, with an increasing number of products and menus that can be easily enjoyed at home, in addition to dining out and ready-made meals.

Amidst this trend, our company aims to offer new food choices in the frozen gyoza market by developing a lineup that allows consumers to easily enjoy the appeal of Korean cuisine. The purchase rate for frozen gyoza remains at approximately 48%, indicating a large potential market with an unpurchased rate of about 52%*2. Therefore, with the launch of <Mandu>, we propose the value of "satisfaction despite being light" and "the ability to easily enjoy Korean-style flavors at home," aiming to revitalize the frozen gyoza market.

*2 Intage SCI Frozen Gyoza Market, April 2025 - March 2026, Purchase Rate

"Mandu," Known as Korean Dumplings

Mandu is a dish known as Korean dumplings. It is popular for its wide variety of cooking methods and fillings, including steaming, boiling, and frying. Fillings often include meat and vegetables, as well as vermicelli and tofu. The newly launched "AJINOMOTO BRAND GYOZA" <Mandu> and <Mandu for Microwave> were uniquely developed as products that can be easily enjoyed in Japanese households, while referencing these characteristics of Mandu. The filling combines five types of vegetables (chives, cabbage, onion, garlic, green onion) with vermicelli and tofu, creating a light yet flavorful and satisfying taste.

Two Lineups for Pan-Frying or Microwaving

<Mandu> can be cooked without oil, water, or a lid, resulting in crispy wings. It also prevents oil splattering even without a lid, reducing the hassle of cleanup and kitchen maintenance. Furthermore, a new technology has been adopted (patent pending) that ensures the skin remains chewy and soft, regardless of whether a lid is used.

<Mandu for Microwave> can be easily cooked in a microwave in about 3 minutes, saving the effort of pan-frying and cleanup. Each dumpling weighs 32g, offering a satisfying portion, and with 5 pieces per bag, it is ideal as a main dish. A unique technology (patent pending) ensures that the skin does not harden after microwave cooking and remains easy to bite.

Our company will continue to develop products with unique added value that balance convenience and deliciousness, staying close to consumers' lives, and delivering "excitement" and "smiles."

1. Product Overview:

2. Promotional Activities:

Through advertising and in-store campaigns, we will promote the unique value of our frozen gyoza and conduct activities that make people feel "delicious" and "fun." Through these activities, we will propose store layouts that stimulate the purchasing desire of many consumers.

3. Release Date:

Sunday, June 7, 2026

4. Sales Area:

Nationwide

5. Best Before Date:

Indicated by year, month, day

6. Price:

Open price

7. Customer Inquiries:

Ajinomoto Frozen Foods Co., Ltd. Customer Service Center [Toll-free] 0120-303-010 Keywords:

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: New Product