Japanese industry utilization of underused marine species

Japanese companies and regional governments are expanding the commercial utility of marine species that have historically seen limited market demand or have been discarded.

Initial efforts have focused on diversifying the use of sharks. While shark fins are traditionally valued, wholesalers and snack manufacturers are now promoting shark meat and skin for direct consumption and consumer goods. For example, Chuka Takahashi Inc. has introduced ‘Peach Shark’ meat products, and Audio-Technica has utilized blue shark skin in audio equipment handles. These initiatives face hurdles such as environmental concerns and pop culture influences.

More recent developments show a broader push to utilize ‘unutilized fish’ to combat fishery declines and ecological imbalances. This includes transforming invasive species into high-protein dog food or new food resources, such as processed American catfish in Ibaraki Prefecture. Collaborations between startups, food companies, and academic institutions are also producing new products, such as fish kebab sandwich sets, to create market value for species previously viewed as pests or lacking freshness stability.