2 things I learned from Cool Packaging: Frozen Summer Treats From Japan by Ryoko (on PingMag) are first that "frozen treats began to be produced as a substitute for ice cream after
World War II, when almost all dairy products were designated for
military use. A popular simple treat at the time was merely ice mixed
with sweetener, into which a pair of disposable chopsticks were stuck.
Very basic, but it made folks happy in those tough times" and second that adzuki beans are part of the mix as they are in many Japanese candies.
I cut down on ice cream in the past year so I paid more attention to the healthier frozen treats in her piece.
Ryoko mentions the unusual ‘Fruit and Vegetable Bar’ popular with women.
The “Gari-Gari-Kun” (”Mr. Crunchy”) celebrates its 25th anniversary this year and the mascot on its wrap packs a punch (illustration below, from PingMag).
I really like the Popsicles shaped like slices of watermelon and cantaloupe (picture also from PingMag)
Quality and standards are enforced by the very official Japanese Ice Cream Association.
There is a site dedicated only to the topic of these cold treats titled Japanese Ice Cream.
Is it more marketing than informative, I will let you judge.
Cooling off for Tokyo Thursdays # 47
Related: Seafood Ice-Cream and other strange brews…Big in Japan