For anyone who grew up in Japan, certain chocolates hold a special place in their hearts, with many of these beloved treats coming from Meiji, one of Japan’s leading confectionery brands.
Established in 1916, Meiji has crafted chocolates for more than a hundred years, earning a reputation for their creamy texture and deep, satisfying flavors.
Let’s delve into the history of Meiji Chocolate, a favorite among Japanese chocolate enthusiasts. We'll also take a closer look at the variety of tasty offerings from this celebrated brand.
Meiji Chocolate
Brands like Meiji Chocolate have been pivotal in developing Japan's chocolate scene by making delicious, affordable chocolate treats accessible to all. Chocolate first made its way to Japan as a beverage through Dutch traders during the Edo period but didn't catch on initially. It wasn't until after Japan ended its period of isolation that Western confections began to appear in areas with foreign settlers, though chocolate remained a luxury item for the most part.
By the 1920s, Japanese manufacturers began producing chocolate snacks in factories, marketing them as sources of energy and nutrition, which started to edge out traditional wagashi (Japanese sweets). The post-World War II era saw American soldiers handing out chocolate to Japanese children, which not only boosted its popularity but also influenced local producers in their approach to packaging and flavor innovations.
Now, let's dive into the story of Meiji Chocolate, a brand that has been at the forefront of Japan's chocolate love affair.
Meiji workers at 1920s
The Meiji Group stands as one of the pioneering chocolate manufacturers in Japan. Originally starting with Western-style sweets and dairy products, the company evolved to meet the shifting tastes of its customers.
In the 1920s, Meiji was instrumental in popularizing chocolate in Japan. They imported equipment from Germany and launched Meiji Milk Chocolate in 1926, which quickly became a beloved treat. From the 1950s through the 1970s, Meiji broadened its range of confections, continually adapting to the varied tastes of its consumers.
Meiji Chocolate's story started in 1906 with the establishment of Meiji Seika Kaisha, Ltd. Initially focusing on biscuits and candies, the founders soon tapped into the burgeoning demand for chocolate. By 1916, Meiji had introduced its first chocolate products to the Japanese market, laying the foundation for what would become a long-standing legacy in the world of sweets.
Meiji Chocolate has consistently led the way in chocolate innovation, continually introducing exciting new flavors and textures. In 1969, Meiji revolutionized the chocolate market with Marble Chocolate, the first chocolate to feature a colorful candy coating. This innovative product set the stage for other brands to create similar offerings.
In 1993, Meiji launched another groundbreaking product, Meltykiss. This luxury chocolate is known for its rich flavor and soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, quickly becoming a favorite and inspiring an entirely new category of chocolate treats.
Meiji Meltykiss
Today, Meiji Chocolate is recognized globally, offering a wide array of chocolate products that appeal to different tastes. With a rich history of over a hundred years in chocolate craftsmanship, Meiji continues to innovate and excite chocolate enthusiasts worldwide.
Meiji's signature product, Meiji Milk Chocolate, has been a staple for nearly a century, beloved for its classic taste and variety of flavors. The Chocolate Line by Meiji offers a taste of global chocolate styles, incorporating flavors from different regions.
Additionally, Meiji incorporates elements of Japanese design, like the Yamato Ratio, to create aesthetically pleasing chocolates. Among its varied product line, including Almond Chocolate, Kinoko no Yama, and Meltykiss, Meiji offers a diverse range of flavors catering to all kinds of chocolate lovers.
Meiji different flavors of chocolate
Meiji's well-known Meiji Milk Chocolate has been a cornerstone of the brand for nearly a hundred years, cherished for its traditional bar format and a variety of flavors. Meiji's The Chocolate Line invites chocolate lovers to experience tastes from around the world.
Meiji also embraces elements of traditional Japanese design, like the Yamato Ratio, to ensure their chocolates are not just delicious but also visually appealing. Their range includes favorites like Almond Chocolate, Kinoko no Yama, and Meltykiss, offering a wide selection to satisfy different palates. A highlight of their collection includes:
Crafted with premium cocoa beans and pure milk, this milk chocolate offers a creamy, rich flavor that has been a favorite across generations.
Meiji Milk Chocolate
This dark chocolate delivers a rich, deep flavor with a pleasing bittersweet finish, ideal for those who savor the intensity of darker chocolates.
Meiji Black Chocolate
Perfect for a luxurious treat, these small chocolate cubes with a soft ganache center literally melt in your mouth, offering a smooth and creamy taste sensation.
Meiji Meltykiss
Shaped like the iconic Mt. Fuji, these chocolates blend the sweet tang of strawberry with rich chocolate, creating a delightful mix of fruity and creamy flavors.
Meiji Apollo
Combining the crunch of toasted almonds with the silkiness of milk chocolate, this option offers a satisfying texture and a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with sweet chocolate.
Meiji Almond Chocolate
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