Where to Find Gluten-Free Foods in Japanese Supermarkets | Guidable - Your Guide to a Sustainable, Wellbeing-centred Life in Japan
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Where to Find Gluten-Free Foods in Japanese Supermarkets

By Margherita Jun 26, 2024

While gluten-free foods in Japanese supermarkets may not be as extensive as in some other countries, there has been a noticeable increase in the availability of gluten-free products in recent years. 

While the availability of gluten-free foods may vary depending on the supermarket and location, larger supermarkets in urban areas, particularly those with health food sections, are more likely to offer a broader selection of gluten-free products.

Here are some common supermarkets and stores where you can find gluten-free foods in Japan.

Natural Lawson

Natural Lawson is not actually a supermarket, but a convenience store. Natural Lawson is pivoting towards crafting delicious offerings that promote health, seeking to challenge the stereotype of convenience store fare as “unhealthy.” With a focus on nourishing both the body and the planet, Natural Lawson places importance on sourcing local ingredients and implementing sustainable manufacturing practices. Despite being a convenience store, it remains mindful of cost and price sensitivity, ensuring accessibility to its offerings.

Natural Lawson offers Raw Bite bars, which are simple and healthy snack bars. They are completely gluten-free and made only from organic fruits, nuts, and cocoa powder (depending on the flavor).

Seijo Ishii

seijo ishi supermarket with gluten-free optionsImage Credit: the editor

Seijo Ishii, a supermarket chain established in the early 20th century, has evolved into a premium – and slightly posh – grocery store known for its high-quality products. 

It offers a diverse range of items, including Japanese delicacies and an extensive selection of imported goods like wine, cheese, and baked goods. 

Among its offerings, Seijo Ishii boasts a notable selection of gluten-free bread. Produced by Tainai, these gluten-free loaves resemble traditional flour shokupan in texture. They come in two classic varieties crafted from white and brown rice, along with options featuring raisins and a gluten-free version of the traditional “anpan,” a bread filled with anko paste made from red beans.

Nissin World Delicatessen

Conveniently situated in the heart of the international city, Tokyo, just a 5-minute stroll from Azabu-Juban subway station in Minato ward, Nissin World Delicatessen welcomes a diverse community, including many expats, embassy diplomats, and staff.

The store is designed in a way to evoke an international taste and atmosphere to the point that foreign customers confidently say it resembles a European or North American supermarket, creating a comforting feeling of shopping in one’s hometown.

Their selection is quite comprehensive and resembles that of a typical supermarket, unlike stores such as Kaldi. You can easily complete a family shopping trip with their assortment of fresh produce and canned goods. Additionally, Nissin offers a variety of vegan/vegetarian, gluten-free, and halal options, clearly labeled for convenience. Plus, they provide delivery services for added convenience.

NATIONAL AZABU

National Azabu, situated in Minami Azabu, holds a special place in the hearts of expats residing in Japan. Established in 1962, National Azabu caters to the foreign community, offering products from abroad that are typically unavailable in regular Japanese supermarkets.

For those seeking gluten-free options, National Azabu is an excellent destination. It boasts a wide array of imported gluten-free foods, including pasta, thick-cut chips, soy sauce, bread, and sweets.

gluten-free foods aisle at the supermarketImage Credit: Canva

Bio c’ Bon

Bio c’ Bon, a renowned French organic supermarket, derives its name from the French words “Bio,” meaning “organic,” and “Bon,” signifying “delicious” or “good.” This reflects the core belief that “organic is good.”

Renowned for its fresh produce and an extensive array of everyday items, Bio c’ Bon made its debut in Japan with its inaugural store in Azabu Juban in 2016. Operating under the ethos of “Organic for Everyday Life,” today Bio c’ Bon operates stores in Tokyo and Kanagawa, complemented by an online platform offering nationwide shipping.

Bio c’ Bon is where you can find the biggest range of gluten-free products. From gluten-free pasta, including penne, spaghetti, and macaroni from the high-quality Italian brand Alce Nero, to delicious cookies, desserts, and brownie mix, BioSevon is your go-to destination for organic and gluten-free goodness.

Your Destination for Organic and Gluten-Free Foods in Japan

Discovering gluten-free options in Japanese supermarkets unveils a growing trend towards healthier, more inclusive food choices. From convenience stores like Natural Lawson to premium outlets like Seijo Ishii, and international hubs like Nissin World Delicatessen, the landscape of gluten-free offerings continues to expand, catering to diverse dietary needs.

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 Featured Image Credit: Canva