Calbee Acquires Majority Stake in Hodo to Expand Plant-Based Food Portfolio

Calbee, Inc., a global leader in snacks and food products, has acquired a majority stake in Hodo, Inc., a leading producer of organic tofu and sustainable plant proteins based in Oakland, California. The acquisition represents a significant strategic move to accelerate Calbee's international growth and strengthen its Health and Food business segment, aligning with the company's "Change 2025" transformation plan focused on U.S. market expansion.

As part of this venture, Sagamiya Foods Co., Ltd., a leading tofu manufacturer in Japan, has also acquired a minority stake in Hodo and will provide technical support to enhance the venture's growth initiatives. This partnership combines Calbee's global distribution capabilities with Hodo's innovative product development and Sagamiya's technical expertise in tofu manufacturing.

Hodo has established itself as a pioneer in tofu innovation, producing high-quality, protein-rich foods made with organic, non-GMO soybeans. The company's products are gluten-free and packed with nutrients, earning widespread recognition among health-conscious consumers and Michelin-honored chefs across the United States. Hodo supplies retail grocery outlets nationwide and major food service partners including Chipotle, demonstrating its strong market presence and distribution network.

The acquisition addresses the growing consumer demand for sustainable foods, particularly in the U.S. market where health and environmental concerns are driving significant growth in plant-based protein consumption. Tofu, with its high plant-based protein content and minimal processing, has gained particular attention as consumers seek healthier dietary options without compromising on taste. Makoto Ehara, CEO of Calbee, stated that this move represents an important step in building a global portfolio of enjoyable and meaningful foods that align with evolving consumer preferences.

Minh Tsai, Founder of Hodo, emphasized the company's commitment to blending tradition and innovation to create foods for consumers seeking healthier options without taste compromise. The partnership with Calbee provides Hodo with access to global resources and distribution channels that can accelerate its mission of delivering better-for-you foods to a broader consumer base. For more information about Hodo's products and mission, visit https://www.hodofoods.com.

This acquisition positions Calbee to capitalize on the rapidly expanding plant-based food market, which continues to show strong growth driven by increasing consumer awareness of health, sustainability, and environmental concerns. The partnership leverages Calbee's corporate philosophy of "harnessing nature's gifts, bringing taste and fun, and contributing to healthy lifestyles," while supporting Hodo's commitment to crafting delicious, nutrient-dense foods. Additional information about Calbee's global operations and sustainability initiatives can be found at https://www.calbee.co.jp/en/.

The strategic acquisition demonstrates how major food corporations are responding to shifting consumer preferences by investing in plant-based protein companies that combine nutritional benefits with exceptional taste profiles. This move is expected to strengthen Calbee's competitive position in the health food segment while providing Hodo with the resources needed to expand its product offerings and market reach, ultimately benefiting consumers seeking high-quality, sustainable food options.