Popular Japanese Natto Brands

I’ve shared a lot of posts about natto — how to eat it, different types, and recipe ideas. In this post, I’m introducing Japan’s three most popular natto brands: Takano Foods, Mizkan, and Azuma Foods. It’s perfect for natto lovers or anyone curious to try different kinds. I hope it helps you discover a new favorite!

Welcome to From Japan with Flavor! This is where I share unique Japanese foods, historical food culture, food trends, and whatever I’m currently exploring—all straight from Japan!

Takano Foods

Takano Foods Website
A well-known Japanese natto brand with the No.1 market share in Japan.
Their brand symbol is Okame, a traditional figure believed to bring good fortune.
Takano Foods offers a wide range of natto products, with around 30 different kinds in various sizes, from crushed to large.
Check their factory tour on the website — it’s well-organized, fun, and informative!
Learn more in Exploring Takano Foods: Japan’s Top Natto Maker.

My Pick: Okame Natto Goku Kotsubu — classic small-bean natto with a sweet and savory sauce. I could eat this every day and never get tired of it. Simple, tasty, and great quality!

Mizkan

Mizkan Website, Mizkan Global Website
A nationally recognized brand in Japan, best known for its vinegar products.
They’ve expanded globally, with products available in North America and Europe.
Mizkan’s fermentation skills and research are top-notch thanks to their vinegar brewing expertise.
They took on the challenge of natto’s strong smell and created a natto with a lower odor.

My Pick: Toromame — This natto comes in super convenient packaging, with the sauce tucked right into the lid. Just fold the lid to pour it in — so easy! And the sauce has a little magic to it. Once you mix it in, the natto turns incredibly soft with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Azuma Foods

Azuma Foods Website
A brand dedicated solely to making natto.
They use locally grown soybeans, with about 35% of their total supply sourced from within Japan.

My Pick: Kuromame Kotsubu — Black bean natto is a rare find! It has a milder smell than regular natto, making it a good option for those sensitive to the usual natto aroma.