Meiji Karl: Corn Puffs Available Only in West Japan
Recently, there was sad news for many Okashi-lovers living in the eastern part of Japan, including Niigata Prefecture, where I live.
The Japanese confectionery company Meiji has decided to terminate the sales of its long-selling corn puff snack “Karl (カール)” for East Japan.
This is mainly because the sales have remained sluggish due to good sales of potato snacks such as potato chips.
So those living in eastern Japan won’t be able to purchase the puffed corn snack in their neighboring grocery stores after this September.
Meiji Karl: The Pioneer of Salty Snacks in Japan
Before Karl was released, sweet snacks were the mainstream in Japan. Meiji Karl came into the market in 1968 and became the pioneer of salty snacks.
Currently, there are 5 flavors in the series, but the manufacturer Meiji has decided to discontinue the production of flavors other than cheese and lightly salted Karls.
That is lucky for me because my most favorite flavor is cheese.
Cheese Flavor
Meiji Karl Cheese Flavor
Image: j-town.net
Meiji Karl Cheese is a flavorful, delicious puffed corn snack. It has a light crispy texture and a mild, rich cheese flavor.
I have loved these cheese-flavored corn puffs since I was a kid, so it is a pity that I won’t be able to buy the snack in my neighborhood.
But to my joy, Karl is still being sold on online marketplaces!
