Japanese Cuisine Meets Slow Cooking: Yo! Expands with Meal Kits

Mar 31, 2025 at 11:15 AM

A renowned Japanese brand, Yo!, famous for its vibrant sushi eateries, is venturing into uncharted territory by introducing meal kits featuring Pulled Chicken Katsu and Pulled Pork Teriyaki. This new product line aims to replicate the restaurant experience in the comfort of one's home. Collaborating with The Flava People and Pilgrim’s Europe, these exclusive meal kits will debut in UK Asda stores starting in April. By incorporating a multi-layered texture and slow-cooked ingredients, Yo! offers consumers an easy-to-prepare dinner option that preserves the authentic taste of Japanese cuisine.

With the growing demand for convenience without sacrificing flavor, the meal kits cater to modern lifestyles. The Pulled Chicken Katsu and Pulled Pork Teriyaki are designed to provide a satisfying dining experience within half an hour. The secret lies in the pre-slow-cooked process conducted by Pilgrim’s Europe, ensuring tender meat that complements either rice or bao buns. The inclusion of a crispy katsu crumb adds a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall sensory appeal.

The Flava People, a family-operated enterprise specializing in innovative flavor concepts and strategic partnerships, has played a pivotal role in developing this range. Their collaboration with well-known brands like Guinness and Pinch of Nom highlights their expertise in bringing unique tastes to households. Olivia Rooney, Brand Strategy Manager at The Flava People, emphasizes the potential of disrupting traditional slow-cook offerings dominated by British and American flavors, inviting younger audiences to explore international options.

Asda shares this vision, recognizing the untapped market potential in the slow-cooked category. Sam Clarke, Buyer for Asda's commercial food division, expresses enthusiasm about leveraging Yo!'s established reputation to attract more customers to this segment. This launch not only diversifies the slow-cooked offerings but also introduces an exciting element to shoppers' routines, encouraging them to experiment with diverse culinary traditions.

This initiative bridges the gap between convenience and authenticity, allowing consumers to savor high-quality meals inspired by Japanese gastronomy. By aligning with popular trends and trusted brands, Yo! continues to innovate and expand its influence in the global food market, setting a precedent for future ventures in meal kit innovation.