Calbee temporarily changes potato chip packaging due to supply chain disruptions linked to Iran tensions

Japanese snack manufacturer Calbee will temporarily switch selected potato chip packaging to grayscale due to supply chain disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East.

The company said the measure is intended to help maintain stable product supplies as supply instability affects certain raw materials.

The black-and-white packaging will apply to 14 products and is scheduled to roll out on May 25. Calbee said the packaging change will not affect product quality. 
 

Supply chain concerns linked to Middle East tensions

The company did not specify which shortages caused the packaging adjustment.

A spokesperson for the Japanese government said authorities had not received reports of immediate supply shortages related to printing ink or naphtha and that necessary volumes for Japan were being secured.

Naphtha, a petroleum byproduct, is sometimes used in parts of the ink manufacturing process. The government also plans to meet with Calbee to discuss the situation and address potential supply imbalances. 
 

Wider impact on global supply chains

Supply chain disruptions have intensified following attacks on Iran and the prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz, an important global shipping route for Middle Eastern oil exports.

The disruptions have already affected several sectors, including fertilizer supplies and agricultural exports.

Images released by Calbee show the redesigned potato chip bags in grayscale, replacing the company's traditional bright packaging colors.

The simplified packaging removes much of the familiar visual branding traditionally used to distinguish flavors on store shelves.