Japanese snack producer Calbee Group has acquired a majority stake in US tofu and plant-based food company Hodo, aiming to enter the US plant-based food market and grow its international and Food and Health businesses. As part of the initiative, Japanese tofu manufacturer Sagamiya Foods Co., Ltd. will also acquire a minority stake in Hodo to offer technical support for promoting and expanding tofu culture in the US. This move aligns with Calbee's plans for overseas expansion and the US market as a key focus area.

Founded in 2004 and based in Oakland, California, Hodo produces a variety of tofu products, yuba, and other plant-based foods made with organic and non-GMO soybeans. With a unique production method that preserves tofu flavor and texture, Hodo has recently expanded its product portfolio and entered leading grocery retailers. Calbee sees the increasing demand for sustainable foods and the high plant-based protein content of tofu as appealing to health-conscious consumers, positioning Hodo as a valuable addition to its global food portfolio and efforts to strengthen its Food and Health businesses while expanding globally.