Calpis is fermented drink which contains dairy but is classified as a lactic acid drink, therefore at least by one measure putting more squarely in competition with offerings by Yakult than with yogurt drinks. The original idea came from a Mongolian cultured milk called airag. The name Calpis comes from calcium plus the Sanskrit word for butter according to Wikipedia and is one of the most common jokes or topics of conversation for people new to Japan (because of the name sounds like what a cow would do after a night of heavy drinking). Calpis is now a subsidiary of Ajinomoto.
The brand was first introduced in 1919, and there are many product extensions, making it one of the most well recognized food brands in Japan. This product, The Premium Calpis, is as it's name implies a premium version which promises a richer flavor, better aftertaste, better aroma and all Japanese ingredients. It also comes in a smaller size and at a higher price.
http://www.calpis.co.jp/products/milkybeverage/premium12.html
Photo is a web capture for explanatory purposes, copyright belongs to the company.
Meiji has introduced two chocolate covered versions of their Karl snacks - one a regular chocolate flavor and the other a matcha green tea flavored chocolate. Probably not an item for a healthy choices menu, but fans of this product line always expect new and interesting varieties. 明治、カール
http://www.meiji.co.jp/sweets/snack/karl/
Photo is a web capture for explanatory purposes, copyright belongs to the company.
This Hard Rock Cafe pin with the pandas looks Chinese, but in most Japanese minds is immediately associated with the Ueno Zoo in Tokyo because they have long had pandas on display. Therefore it makes complete since for the Ueno Hard Rock Cafe to feature these pins.
http://www.hardrockjapan.com/limited_pins/2012_ueno_panda10.asp
Photo is a web capture for explanatory purposes, copyright belongs to the company.
Kraft branded cheeses are sold through Morinaga in Japan (Mozzarella, Camembert, cheese cake, sliced). クラフト、森永
http://www.morinagamilk.co.jp/products/cheese/
Photo is a web capture for explanatory purposes, copyright belongs to the company.
