Story perspectives

Bear Meat Demand Surges Amid Rising Attack Fatalities

12/24/2025

Summary

Story summary

Japan's bear meat market booms as 13 bear attack fatalities this year boost demand for meat from culled bears.
Koji Suzuki, Chichibu restaurant owner, struggles to meet demand for grilled bear meat sourced from culled bears.
Government allocates $118 million for population control to turn nuisance wildlife into economic opportunities and promote sustainable consumption.
Katsuhiko Kakuta, owner of restaurant in Aomori, saw bear meat sell out after social media attention.

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Story summary

Japan's bear meat market booms as 13 bear attack fatalities this year boost demand for meat from culled bears.
Koji Suzuki, Chichibu restaurant owner, struggles to meet demand for grilled bear meat sourced from culled bears.
Government allocates $118 million for population control to turn nuisance wildlife into economic opportunities and promote sustainable consumption.
Katsuhiko Kakuta, owner of restaurant in Aomori, saw bear meat sell out after social media attention.