Calbee, Inc., a global leader in snacks and food products, has made a significant move by acquiring a 58% majority stake in Hodo, Inc., a leading US tofu and plant-based foods producer, on September 11, 2025. Sagamiya Foods Co., Ltd., a prominent Japanese tofu manufacturer, acquired an additional 10% minority stake, bringing the total acquisition to 68%. This strategic move marks Calbee’s formal entry into the US plant-based and tofu market, aligning with its “Change 2025” transformation plan aimed at expanding its international “Food and Health” business segment. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Driving the Acquisition: Calbee’s Vision
The acquisition is a strategic step in Calbee’s “Change 2025” transformation plan, launched in February 2023, which focuses on US market expansion, overseas growth, and strengthening its Food and Health business. Makoto Ehara, CEO of Calbee, stated, “As demand for sustainable foods grows, tofu is increasingly valued by health-conscious consumers.” With its high plant-based protein content and minimal processing, tofu is drawing particular attention in the US market, where health and environmental concerns are driving growth. This move is expected to strengthen Calbee’s Health and Food businesses, expanding its global presence.
Hodo, Inc.: A Leader in Innovative Plant-Based Foods
Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Oakland, California, Hodo is renowned for its high-quality, organic, non-GMO tofu and plant-based protein products. Its offerings include tofu, yuba (tofu skin), and other plant-based proteins, which are protein-rich, nutrient-dense, and gluten-free. Hodo’s products are available in retail grocery outlets nationwide and are used by major food service companies, including Chipotle. The brand has also earned recognition from Michelin-honored chefs for its culinary versatility.
Some of Hodo’s key products include:
* Tofu
* Yuba (tofu skin)
* Other plant-based protein snacks
These products are not only popular among health-conscious consumers but also reflect the growing trend towards healthy snacking.
Sagamiya Foods: Bridging Tradition and Innovation
As part of the acquisition, Sagamiya Foods, a leading tofu manufacturer in Japan, acquired a 10% minority stake in Hodo. Sagamiya will provide technical support, leveraging Japan’s tofu-making traditions to accelerate innovation and blend approaches from the US and Japanese markets. Their mission includes promoting tofu culture, preserving traditional craftsmanship, and driving product development in the US. This collaboration is expected to bring about new and innovative products, capitalizing on the growing demand for plant-based foods.
Market Significance: Plant-Based Foods Driving Growth
The US tofu market is experiencing significant growth fueled by rising demand for plant-based protein and sustainable foods among health-conscious consumers. Calbee’s acquisition of Hodo reflects its strategy to capitalize on these trends, expanding its high-quality snack and protein portfolio into new geographies. This marks Calbee’s first major entry into the US plant-based sector, positioning the company to lead in the growing market for sustainable and nutritious foods. The demand for plant-based foods is also seen in other sectors, such as the booming plant-based dairy market.
Key Products, Partnerships, and Recognition
Hodo’s product lines include tofu, yuba (tofu skin), and other plant-based protein snacks. The company partners with national food service chains like Chipotle, and its products are available in retail outlets across the US. Its innovative offerings have garnered recognition from Michelin-honored chefs, solidifying its reputation for quality and versatility. To explore more about the trends in the snacking industry, visit snacking trends and innovations.
Timeline of Key Events
The key events in this acquisition are:
* Hodo founded: 2004
* Calbee’s “Change 2025” plan launched: February 2023
* Acquisition completed: September 11, 2025
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