Calbee Inc., Japan's leading snack manufacturer, will transition its packaging for 14 products, including popular potato chips and prawn crackers, to a stark black-and-white design starting on May 25, 2026. This change is a response to shortages in colored ink, which have been affected by the disruptions in the supply chain linked to the conflict in Iran.

The war has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for oil and related products, leading to soaring prices for commodities such as naphtha, an essential ingredient for both ink and plastics. This impact has been felt across various sectors, with prices doubling in Asia and triggering a cascading effect on availability and costs of essential goods.

Calbee’s decision reflects the growing challenges faced by Japanese companies in securing stable supplies amid uncertain geopolitical conditions. Accompanying Calbee’s announcement, Mizkan, another food manufacturer, has suspended production on certain items and raised prices due to shortages in polystyrene containers.

Previously vibrant packaging designs, characterized by their colorful imagery and branding, will now transition to simple monochromatic lettering. According to Calbee, this move is designed to ensure that the company's products remain available to consumers while navigating the difficulties posed by the global supply chain's instability.

The Japanese government's Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Kei Sato assured the public that domestic oil refinements are ongoing and that the country is increasing imports from regions outside the Middle East. However, many industries remain vulnerable to fluctuations in the global market, affecting everything from snack food to transport.

As consumer demand continues, this shift by Calbee and other companies serves as a stark reminder of the real-world implications of international conflict on everyday life, underscoring how effective crisis management and adaptive strategies are critical for business continuity in unpredictable times.