Daybreak, a company that develops special freezing solutions, announced on October 14th that it had successfully air-shipped frozen sushi from Japan to the United States using Panasonic's insulated boxes.
<Frozen sushi successfully transported by air while maintaining a temperature of -22°C>
This demonstration has enabled the establishment of a high-quality cold chain using air transport following sea transport, representing a significant step forward in expanding overseas exports of frozen sushi.
Although air transport has a shorter transit time than sea transport, it carries a higher risk of temperature fluctuations inside the aircraft and during loading and unloading of cargo, making it difficult to maintain consistent quality. Daybreak has undergone multiple air transport trials, but has repeatedly failed in temperature control.
<"Vixel," a vacuum-insulated cooler box developed by Panasonic>
Therefore, this time, they utilized Panasonic's next-generation reusable vacuum-insulated cooler box, "VIXELL." While it is usually used for transporting pharmaceuticals and other items, this was the first time it was used for transporting food items such as sushi, which are sensitive to temperature changes, overseas.
<Temperature measurement data during air transport>
The verification was conducted from August 29 to September 9, 2025, between Japan and the United States. Data was collected over a 10-day period, from departure to receipt at the destination.
As a result, it was confirmed that all five "VIXELL" boxes transported remained below -22°C. This demonstrates that a sufficient cold chain can be maintained to preserve the quality of frozen sushi even during air transport.
Based on its track record in maritime transport and the results of this latest shipment, Daybreak aims to establish a cold chain utilizing both sea and air transport. The company plans to further accelerate the export of frozen sushi and promote the appeal of sushi and other Japanese foods to the world.
