No more foie gras! Import of foie gras decreased by 44%

Compared to 2020, the import of foie gras dropped by 44% according to the 2021 statistics presented by the Ministry of Finance. When compared to 10 years ago, it has decreased by 94%.

This is likely because many consumers in Japan are feeling more and more disturbed by the inhumane process to produce foie gras, plus the issue of bird flu that emerges almost every year.

Animal cruelty and diseases are two primary issues when it comes to farm animals, and thus, both companies and stakeholders should avoid the risks to consumers who are turned off by the cruel practice and the pandemics caused by farm animals.

Plunging Demand

Today, conventional French restaurants and hotels still feel the need for foie gras as their regulars prefer traditional dishes. They choose to serve foie gras, not because they want to, but they think they must. They pursue profitability rather than ethics.

Some companies, such as big fast food chains or Sushi restaurants, also offer foie gras as cheap exotic food to attract new types of consumers. Despite the attempt, however, it won’t lead to fortune or profit for these companies because the demand for foie gras has been plunging.

Foie gras Imports

Emerging Trends in Alternative products

The question of foie gras’ deliciousness aside, many alternative products are emerging.

We’re starting to see some start-ups trying to innovate cultured foie gras in Japan and overseas.

We’re also seeing new plant-based foie gras, including one called faux-gras that won some food awards.

In England, the market for alternative foie gras is becoming competitive as the country is considering banning the import of foie gras.

Change in Dietary Preference

There has been some change in consumers’ thoughts in regards to enjoying foods that involve animals’ sufferings like as foie gras. The concept of “luxury foods” has shifted to something that is based on animal welfare, sustainability, or organic farming.

What people value constantly changes according to the times, and the foods we value today are those for which we can see the background stories of the animals we consume.