In recent news, the price of domestically-produced pork in Japan has reached an all-time high, causing concern among consumers. Currently, the wholesale price of Japanese pork has risen to a record 948 yen per kilogram as of July 18. This increase has forced some businesses, like a western-style restaurant in Tokyo’s Ueno district, to raise their prices gradually. The owner of the restaurant, known for its high-quality tonkatsu, expressed distress over the rising costs.
Meanwhile, in Asakusa, a popular all-you-can-eat shabu-shabu restaurant that serves high-quality domestic pork has managed to maintain its prices despite the rising costs. The manager explained that they have offset the increased pork costs, which now amount to around 1,480 to 1,500 yen per kilogram, by switching from pre-packaged vegetables to preparing them in-house, thus saving on expenses.
The sharp increase in pork prices is attributed to several factors, including pigs eating less due to the heat, leading to slower growth. Additionally, last summer’s heat affected the pigs’ health, resulting in a lower conception rate. A supermarket manager noted a significant hike in prices, with pork now priced at 149 yen per 100 grams, up from 109 yen in the spring.
Traditionally, pork prices tend to stabilize by early September, but this year, any potential decrease might not happen until later in the month.
by MagazineKey4532