Calbee's thick-cut kettle-style chip brand, Kataage Potato, is releasing a limited-edition spring flavor for 2026: Kataage Potato Salt Wasabi Flavor. The product will go on sale at convenience stores nationwide on May 18, 2026 (Monday), with availability expanding to all other stores from May 25, 2026 (Monday).
※ The product uses 0.02% wasabi powder made from wasabi grown in Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture.
Background
Kataage Potato is based on a traditional kettle-frying method said to have originated in mid-19th century America. The brand first launched as a Hokkaido regional product on November 8, 1993, before gradually expanding and going nationwide in 2005. More than 30 years later, it remains a long-selling favorite, known for its firm texture and deep potato flavor that develops with every bite. Alongside its classic lineup—including plain salt, black pepper, and roasted seaweed flavors—the brand regularly releases limited-edition varieties throughout the year.
The wasabi-flavored variant has a history of its own. A "Kataage Potato Wasabi Flavor" was first released as a limited edition in May 2014, and was re-released in 2016 and 2018 due to its popularity. In 2019, the spice level was stepped up and rebranded as "Kataage Potato Salt Wasabi Flavor." Since 2022, it has been released annually as a spring seasonal product.
The 2026 version again features wasabi from Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture—the same origin as the previous year. The recipe has been refined to better satisfy wasabi lovers, with a stronger emphasis on the sharp, nose-clearing heat and fresh fragrance characteristic of real wasabi. Combined with a moderate saltiness and the signature crunchy base, it aims to deliver an authentic, premium wasabi flavor.
Product Features
- Features wasabi from Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture. The nose-clearing sharpness and fresh wasabi aroma, paired with a moderate saltiness, complement the firm bite and deep potato flavor that Kataage Potato is known for.
- The packaging prominently features an image evoking freshly harvested wasabi and incorporates a wasabi leaf motif icon to highlight the seasonal character. The matte-finish green packaging is designed to convey the freshness and quality of the wasabi ingredient.
Product Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Kataage Potato Salt Wasabi Flavor |
| Contents | 60g |
| Price | Open price (approx. ¥190 including tax) |
| Release Date / Sales Area | May 18, 2026 (Mon) – Convenience stores nationwide; May 25, 2026 (Mon) – All other stores nationwide |
Actual release dates may vary slightly by retailer. Availability may differ by store; the product may sell out before the season ends.
For more information, visit the Kataage Potato Fan Site: https://kataage-ouenbu.calbee.jp/
