7-Eleven Japan Revamps Its Premium “Kodawari Omusubi” Rice Ball Series, Rolling Out from May 19

Seven-Eleven Japan Co., Ltd. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President and Representative Director: Tomohiro Akutsu) will fully renew its “Kodawari Omusubi” premium rice ball series, with products launching sequentially from Tuesday, May 19. For the rice, the company selected eight varieties from many high-quality production areas and cultivars. It studied cooking methods suited to each type of rice to bring out the rice’s natural flavor. Fillings such as charcoal-grilled coho salmon belly and thick-cut beef tongue are combined with the rice to create the exceptional taste distinctive to the “Kodawari Omusubi” series. The renewed series offers even better flavor through carefully selected rice and fillings, as well as meticulous rice-cooking and preparation methods. Key renewal points include the use of carefully selected rice. From superior production areas and varieties across Japan, the company selected options such as Niigata-grown Koshihikari and Yamagata-grown Tsuyahime, using different rice varieties by region. Customers can enjoy the unique characteristics of each rice, including distinct grains, a pleasantly chewy texture, and an elegant sweetness that spreads as they chew. Rice used may vary by region. The cooking method has also been tailored to each rice variety to maximize its natural flavor and pair well with the fillings. The fillings have also been carefully selected. By paying close attention to preparation methods and even ingredient size, the products are designed to remain delicious through the final bite. The lineup includes: Niigata-grown Koshihikari Rice Ball with Hokkaido Raw Tarako, priced at 240 yen (259.20 yen including tax), launching sequentially from Tuesday, May 19, and sold nationwide excluding some areas. It uses tarako aged in an ice-temperature range just before freezing, offering a distinct grainy texture and enhanced umami. Niigata-grown Koshihikari Rice Ball with Charcoal-Grilled Coho Salmon Belly, priced at 278 yen (300.24 yen including tax), launching sequentially from Tuesday, May 19, and sold nationwide excluding some areas. Fatty, flavorful coho salmon belly is grilled over charcoal for a fragrant finish. Niigata-grown Koshihikari Rice Ball with Thick-Cut Beef Tongue, priced at 298 yen (321.84 yen including tax), launching sequentially from Tuesday, May 19, and sold nationwide excluding some areas. Thick-cut beef tongue is seasoned with a lemon-accented salt sauce, bringing out its umami and creating a lingering flavor. Niigata-grown Koshihikari Rice Ball with Charcoal-Grilled Mackerel, priced at 220 yen (237.60 yen including tax), launching sequentially from Tuesday, May 19, and sold nationwide excluding some areas. Fatty Norwegian mackerel is marinated with ingredients such as salted rice malt and grilled over charcoal until tender and fluffy. Niigata-grown Koshihikari Rice Ball with Yuzu Chirimen, priced at 210 yen (226.80 yen including tax), launching sequentially from Tuesday, May 19, and sold nationwide excluding some areas. Chirimen-jako simmered sweet and savory with soy sauce and mirin is combined with Japanese yuzu peel, offering a refreshing aroma and refined, light taste. A company representative commented that Seven-Eleven is fully renewing its popular “Kodawari Omusubi” series by carefully selecting rice and fillings and thoroughly reviewing rice-cooking conditions and preparation methods. The company hopes customers will enjoy authentic, quality-focused flavor more conveniently, whether as a small everyday luxury or as an extra item for lunch or dinner. Prices may vary by store. Tax-included prices are shown with the reduced 8% consumption tax rate. Products may no longer be available in stores once planned quantities are sold out or due to other circumstances. Some stores may not carry certain products, or product names and specifications may differ. Images are for illustrative purposes. Information is current as of the announcement; please check the official website for the latest details.