Frozen Food Day

What Is Frozen Food Day?

October 18th is "Frozen Food Day" in Japan. It was established in 1986 by the Japan Frozen Foods Association. The month comes from reading the "tou" in reitou (frozen) as the number 10, and the day comes from minus 18°C, the internationally shared temperature for keeping frozen foods at their best. October's reputation as the "autumn of appetite" is another reason for the timing.

A Date Built from "Tou" and Minus 18°C

Frozen Food Day cleverly combines Japanese wordplay with the standard temperature used for managing frozen food quality.

• Established: In 1986 by the Japan Frozen Foods Association
• Why October: The "tou" in reitou (frozen) is read as the number 10
• Why the 18th: Minus 18°C or below is the internationally shared temperature for preserving the nutrition and quality of frozen food
• Seasonal link: October falls in the "autumn of appetite," when interest in food runs high
• Activities: The association holds talk shows and tasting events featuring frozen food dishes

Your Home Freezer Runs on the Same Standard

Minus 18°C also serves as the guideline for home freezers and supermarket freezer cases. Today frozen foods appear everywhere in daily life, from lunchbox side dishes to main courses and convenience store meals. A simple tip for keeping quality high: put frozen purchases into the freezer as soon as you get home.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Put together an easy lunch or dinner with your favorite frozen foods
• Tidy up your freezer and check expiration dates
• Try a new or trending item in the frozen food aisle
• Share your go-to frozen food picks with coworkers

Minus 18°C, Quietly Protecting Everyday Meals

Frozen food is a reliable ally for busy days. October 18th is a day to enjoy that convenience while remembering the commitment to quality packed into the number minus 18°C.