Press Release
Japan Airlines Introduces Authentic Vegetarian Menus Supervised by Historic Culinary House "Torizen" on India Routes
―Following strong positive feedback, the collaboration expands to Asian Vegetarian Special Meals (AVML) on international flights departing from Japan starting September 2026―
Tokyo, JAPAN―Japan Airlines (JAL) introduced an authentic vegetarian menu supervised by Torizen--a historic Japanese culinary institution established in the Meiji era--as a standard meal option in Economy Class on routes from Narita to India (Delhi and Bengaluru), active since June 2026.
Building upon this success, the partnership will expand in September 2026 to encompass Asian Vegetarian Meals (AVML) offered as special inflight dining options across international flights departing from Japan.
Sample Economy Class Inflight Meal on Narita-India Routes
Authentic Curry Supervised by Torizen (Image photo)
1. Background and Culinary Craftsmanship
On routes to India, the focus has been on creating dishes that appeal to both Indian travelers seeking authentic regional flavors and Japanese passengers accustomed to refined culinary balances--delivering a plate that truly satisfies every palate. This journey began with the discovery of Torizen's authentic curries, sparking a collaborative movement to bring uncompromising, genuine culinary excellence to the skies.
Since its debut, the menu has become a preferred choice among passengers. Overcoming the conventional perception of vegetarian options as restricted or overly simplistic, the dish delivers rich, deeply satisfying flavor profiles through Torizen's exceptional seasoning techniques combined with vibrant, aromatic spices.
2. Economy Class Main Meal Collaboration on India Routes from Narita
With the growth in international travel and diverse dietary preferences, inflight dining requires continuous elevation. On June 1, 2026, JAL introduced the Torizen-supervised vegetarian meal as an option for the primary dining service in Economy Class on Narita-India routes.
Developed by Torizen--which previously collaborated with a major automaker employing many Indian personnel--the menu blends refined Japanese culinary expertise with rich spice formulations. The resulting profile has earned high acclaim from passengers for offering a deeply satisfying dining experience.
Eligible Routes: Narita to Delhi, Narita to Bengaluru
Class: Economy Class
Launch Date: In service since June 1, 2026
3. Expansion to Special Meal Option: Asian Vegetarian Meal (AVML)
In response to high demand and positive passenger response, the supervision by Torizen will expand to the Asian Vegetarian Meal (AVML) special inflight dining menu starting September 1, 2026. This authentic dining experience will become available across key international departures from Japan.
Eligible Routes: International flights departing from Japan (select routes excluded)
Eligible Classes: First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy Class, and Economy Class
Launch Date: September 1, 2026
4. About Torizen
Founded in the Meiji era, Torizen is a historic culinary institution and food manufacturer that preserves traditional craftsmanship while evolving contemporary dining culture. Renowned for its precise seasoning formulations, Torizen delivers authentic, uncompromising flavor profiles tailored for inflight dining.
Comment from Yoshitaka Date, President & Representative Director, Torizen Co., Ltd.:
"It is a privilege to partner with Japan Airlines in delivering thoughtfully crafted meals and new culinary delights to vegetarian travelers around the world. The goal is to make every journey in the skies even more memorable and satisfying through this special meal."
JAL Group remains committed to refining inflight products and services to ensure every passenger experiences comfortable, memorable, and choice-rich air travel.