A Silent Tsunami Attacks Japan
Earthquakes and Tsunamis are natural disasters that Japan has experienced. However, the global food crisis, or the so called ‘silent tsunami’, is a new type of crisis that the Japanese (especially the younger generations) have never experienced before.
Surging Food Prices
Similar to the rest of the world, a surge in food prices has been occurring all over Japan. Prices of deli, processed foods, and food ingredients have all increased in the supermarket. In April, major baking companies, such as Yamazaki Baking, raised their product prices by around 10%. Similarly, soy sauce companies, as well as mayonnaise and butter manufacturers, have also increased their prices by around 10%.
How Japanese Consumers Have Reacted
Unlike an ocean tsunami, consumers cannot shield themselves against the silent tsunami. Consumers have no choice but to just hold off buying any expensive foods or stop dining out. Furthermore, more Japanese have switched to buying Japanese rice instead of bread and noodles, the supply of which has stayed relatively stable in the domestic market.
Potential Damages Caused by the Silent Tsunami
The silent tsunami can certainly damage the Japanese economy. Indeed, the catering and restaurant industries have seen a huge impact on their businesses. Sources show that several Udon (Japanese noodle) shops have decided to close due to the surge in flour prices; and the food crisis is likely to continue affecting the food industry, as well as the Japanese economy. The silent tsunami has caused much confusion among the Japanese, but we will soon realize what a huge tsunami will be like.
May 09 2008 03:09 pm | Clothing, Food and Housing and Weekly Articles
