In brief
Ministop, a major player in Japan's convenience store sector, has temporarily ceased the sale of rice balls known as onigiri at 1,600 locations due to staff tampering with expiry dates.
In a surprising turn of events, Japan's Ministop convenience store chain announced a suspension of rice ball, or onigiri, sales as well as other deli items at approximately 1,600 outlets. The decision followed the revelation that employees at 23 stores, located in cities including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, had falsified expiry dates. Some staff reportedly delayed labeling the products until one to two hours after they were made, while others had relabeled the items with incorrect expiration dates after they had already been placed on sale.Since August 9, Ministop had already halted the sale of onigiri and, as of Monday, has extended the ban to additional deli products while conducting an "emergency investigation." The company expressed regret over the situation, issuing an apology to customers who had previously supported its handcrafted onigiri and bento boxes. Fortunately, no health issues have been reported by customers related to this scandal.The incident has stirred concern as convenience stores, or konbini, play a vital role in the daily routine of many Japanese, especially commuters seeking quick and affordable meals. Onigiri, being a popular handheld option often filled with protein ingredients like tuna salad or cod roe and wrapped in nori, is a staple for grab-and-go customers. Ministop is recognized for its emphasis on fresh products, with hot meals made on-site, distinguishing it from larger convenience chains in Japan.
