FLAP Co., Ltd., based in Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan, is a premium manufacturer and exporter of sweet potato-based food products under the brand name SAZANKA. Known for its dedication to artisanal food preparation and farm-to-fork quality, the company has gained acclaim for transforming traditional Japanese sweet potato delicacies into export-ready gourmet offerings.
Core Business
FLAP Co., Ltd. is focused on:
- Producing a variety of sweet potato snacks and ready-to-eat (RTE) items
- Sourcing locally grown Beniharuka sweet potatoes from Kyushu
- Exporting Japanese-style dried and roasted sweet potato products globally
- Promoting traditional Japanese confectionery in modern packaging formats
The company ensures every product undergoes an aging process to enhance natural sweetness, flavor, and nutritional value, differentiating it from mass-produced alternatives.
Product Offerings
The SAZANKA brand offers a premium collection of hand-crafted sweet potato products, including:
- 熟成やきいも (Aged Roasted Sweet Potato): Slowly baked and aged to develop a rich caramelized flavor
- 生ほしいも (Raw Dried Sweet Potato): Soft-textured, additive-free dried slices
- 熟成さつまいもの塩チップス (Salted Sweet Potato Chips): Thinly sliced and lightly salted
- 芋けんぴ (Candied Sweet Potato Sticks): Crisp and sweet, a traditional wagashi snack
- 芋チップス (Sweet Potato Chips): Lightly fried, natural snacks with minimal seasoning
- 大学芋 (Candied Sweet Potatoes): Traditional glazed sweet potato chunks
- 芋ペースト (Sweet Potato Paste): For bakery and dessert applications
All products are crafted without synthetic additives, preservatives, or artificial coloring, highlighting the natural sweetness of aged Beniharuka sweet potatoes.
Specialization and Core USP
FLAP’s competitive edge is rooted in:
- Proprietary aging techniques that enhance texture and flavor naturally
- Use of locally grown Beniharuka sweet potatoes, prized for high sugar content and soft mouthfeel
- Minimal processing methods that preserve fiber, vitamins, and natural sugars
- Export-ready shelf-stable packaging and multilingual labeling
The company bridges traditional Japanese techniques with modern international demands in healthy snacking and gourmet retail.
Financials and Market Performance
While private financial figures are not disclosed, insights from trade publications and export directories suggest:
- FLAP products are stocked in over 100 premium stores and food expos annually in Japan
- Export sales are estimated to constitute 30–40% of total revenue, with rising interest in Taiwan, Singapore, and Hong Kong
- Growth in Japan’s health snack market—valued at over JPY 500 billion—supports domestic and overseas expansion
The global demand for clean-label, plant-based snacks aligns closely with FLAP’s product philosophy.
Target Markets
FLAP primarily serves:
- Gourmet grocery stores and organic markets in Asia and North America
- Luxury department store food halls and souvenir retailers in Japan
- Importers and distributors specializing in healthy snacks and Japanese foods
- Online shoppers seeking artisanal Japanese food gifts
The company positions its brand to resonate with quality-conscious and wellness-oriented consumers.
Capabilities
FLAP maintains a vertically integrated production and distribution model:
- In-house production and slicing equipment for high precision
- Aging storage units that control temperature and humidity
- Vacuum and nitrogen-sealed packaging lines
- Partnerships with certified cold logistics providers for export fulfillment
The factory complies with Japanese food hygiene standards and can accommodate custom orders for B2B clients.
Certifications and Compliance
FLAP products and operations comply with:
- Japanese Food Sanitation Act standards
- All products are free from preservatives and synthetic sweeteners
- Export documentation and labeling in Japanese, English, and Mandarin
Ongoing collaborations with industry bodies ensure alignment with international food safety standards.
Shipment Records
According to trade sources and export brochures:
- FLAP exports multiple SKUs under the SAZANKA brand primarily to Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the U.S.
- Typical shipments include mixed cartons (10–20kg each) of individually wrapped or vacuum-packed products
- Popular exports: 熟成やきいも (Aged Roasted Sweet Potato), 生ほしいも (Raw Dried Sweet Potato), and 芋けんぴ (Candied Sticks)
Shipping documentation and customs paperwork are tailored for each market’s import standards.
Customer Testimonials
Retailers and partners highlight:
- Consistent quality and aesthetic presentation
- Appreciation for authentic Japanese taste and traditional preparation
- Strong performance in gift categories and seasonal promotions
Repeat orders and positive word-of-mouth have driven international growth without reliance on mass advertising.
Achievements
- Featured in “Shokuhin OEM Navi”, a premier Japanese food industry platform
- Recognized for using locally-sourced agricultural ingredients under regional development programs
- Exhibitor at several Japanese and Asian food product expos
- Developed a dedicated B2B distribution system with custom packaging and branding support
FLAP Co., Ltd. continues to elevate traditional Japanese sweet potato snacks to global acclaim, offering a rare combination of cultural authenticity, health-consciousness, and gourmet appeal under the SAZANKA brand.
