TOKYO - - Snack packaging for select Japanese products is switching to a stark black-and-white design, triggered by the war in Iran that has disrupted supplies of a vital component in colored inks.

Calbee Inc., headquartered in Tokyo and known for its potato chips and cereals, confirms that the contents of the snacks remain unchanged. These popular items stock shelves in Japan's ubiquitous convenience stores and reach consumers in the U.S., China, and Australia.

The company issued a statement this week explaining, "This step aims to ensure a steady product supply."

Beginning May 25, 14 items in Calbee's range will use only two ink colors, a flexible response to evolving geopolitical challenges, the firm announced.

Calbee, established in 1949 with over 5,000 group employees, has not specified how long this packaging shift will persist.

This development stems from the war in Iran effectively sealing off the Strait of Hormuz, driving up oil and commodity prices while creating shortages.

Japan depends nearly completely on imported oil. Naphtha, a derivative, is essential for producing plastics and inks. So far, the country has managed concerns with composure, bolstered by government assurances about ample oil reserves.

Yet the transformation in snack packaging stands out unmistakably.

Take Calbee's signature lightly salted chips, "usu shio," which previously featured a vibrant orange bag showcasing yellow chips and a cheerful potato-man mascot in a hat. Now, it displays simple monochrome text.

The maker of shrimp chips like "kappa ebisen" had unveiled a bold expansion plan just last March.

"Calbee will adapt swiftly and effectively to shifts in its business landscape, including geopolitical uncertainties, while upholding stable deliveries of safe, high-quality goods," the company affirmed. "We appreciate your patience."