Umami-Driven Inflight Meals by JAL, with Support from UIC’s Umami Expertise
November 2025
Enriching the joy of meals through umami—Japan Airlines’ “JAL Cuisine in the Stratosphere "Co-starring our STAN Chefs!" by RED U-35” offered in Premium Economy and Economy Class on international flights, is an initiative that realizes well-being through satisfying meals. Umami is a taste deeply rooted in Japan’s traditional food culture, which is proudly shared with the world. Meals that make full use of its profound appeal are not only delicious and health-conscious, but also provide a sense of comfort and satisfaction to both body and mind.
Umami Information Center supports this initiative by providing umami-related expertise.
Umami Menus Created by a New Generation of Chefs
Japan Airlines is serving signature umami-themed dishes onboard, devised by chefs under 35, who compete in the biggest culinary competition in Japan: RED U-35. By maximizing umami, these dishes bring new value to inflight dining. New menu items will continue to be introduced over time.
We hope that messages from the chefs and delicious inflight meals will enrich your umami experience in the sky.
Chefs and Menus from September to November
Supervising Chefs:
Ryōji Machida (left), then Deputy Head Chef at Akasaka Kikunoi, Tokyo
Kōki Kiyofuji (right), Owner-Chef of Kokyū, Tokyo
Please Watch the Video Featuring Chefs Machida and Kiyofuji
In the video, the chefs passionately share their thoughts, saying, “Umami is one of the most important tastes that Japan proudly offers to the world.” Regarding the menu, they comment, “We’ve created a gentle-tasting sauce that draws out the umami of the ingredients and highlights the natural flavors of each element.”
We invite you to watch the video and explore the depth of umami.
< Japanese Menu >
Menu: Teriyaki Chicken with Umami Vegetable Sauce
Chef: Ryōji Machida, then Deputy Head Chef at Akasaka Kikunoi, Tokyo
< Western Menu >
Menu: Spicy Hamburg Steak with Sesame-Flavored Mustard Sauce and Quinoa Rice
Chef: Koki Kiyofuji, Owner-Chef of KOKYU, Tokyo
Well-being Expanded Through the Use of Umami
Using umami helps reduce salt and calories while enhancing both taste and flavor, leading to healthier and more satisfying meals. Today, umami is drawing attention from chefs and academics around the world.
We hope you’ll take the opportunity to learn about umami, taste it, and discover its remarkable appeal.
Learn more about Umami
What is Umami | Umami Information Center
Master Umami and Transform Your Food
Umami Clips | Umami Information Center