About Ninben
Ninben is one of Japan's most venerable food companies, specialising in katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes) and dashi (Japanese soup stock) since its founding in 1699 in Nihonbashi, Tokyo. With over 325 years of expertise, Ninben has become synonymous with authentic Japanese dashi, earning the prestigious Emperor's Prize at the 18th Agricultural, Forestry, and Fisheries Festival in 1979 for their innovative Katsuobushi Fresh Pack. The company was established by Ihee Takatsu, who arrived in Edo (Tokyo) in 1691 from Mie prefecture. After apprenticing with a grain trader, he began trading in katsuobushi and shioboshi (salted and dried fish) in 1699. Ninben's reputation was built on their hongare katsuobushi, a premium product that undergoes mold application at least four times and is aged over a period of six months, creating the most refined and flavourful bonito flakes available. Ninben katsuobushi flakes are produced using traditional methods, crafted from smoked and koji-fermented katsuo (skipjack tuna) caught in the Pacific waters off Japan's coast. Beyond their legendary bonito flakes, Ninben's range has expanded to include dashi-based dipping sauces, shiro dashi (light-coloured seasoning), seasonings, soups, and even dashi-themed sweets. The brand operates unique "dashi bars" in Japan where visitors can experience minimalist dashi soups made with their premium ingredients. British fans of Japanese cuisine appreciate Ninben for bringing authentic umami to home cooking. Their products are essential for making traditional miso soup, noodle broths, and the foundational stocks that underpin Japanese gastronomy. Available through UK Asian grocery stores and specialist retailers, Ninben represents the pinnacle of Japanese dashi craftsmanship.
