Best Bonito Flakes of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 27, 2026

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Bonito flakes are a staple ingredient in Japanese cuisine, used to add umami flavor to dishes such as miso soup, okonomiyaki, and takoyaki. These flakes are made from dried, fermented, and smoked skipjack tuna, which is shaved into thin, delicate pieces. Bonito flakes are commonly found in small, resealable packages and can be easily added to a variety of dishes for a savory, smoky flavor. They are also a great source of protein and can be used as a seasoning for vegetarian and vegan dishes.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Ajinomoto Hondashi Bonito Soup Stock 2.2 lb Cover #TOP 1
Ajinomoto Hondashi Bonito Soup Stock 2.2 lb
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Eden Foods Bonito Flakes Cover #TOP 2
Eden Foods Bonito Flakes
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Yamahide Hana Katsuo Bonito Flakes Cover #TOP 3
Yamahide Hana Katsuo Bonito Flakes
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Bonito Flakes

#TOP 1

Ajinomoto Hondashi Bonito Soup Stock 2.2 lb

TS0417-A700ML-M1088
Ajinomoto Hondashi Bonito Soup Stock 2.2 lb Cover
Ajinomoto Hondashi Bonito Soup Stock, 2.2 Pound Resealable Bag

The Ajinomoto Hondashi Soup Stock is a versatile base used in many Japanese dishes. It provides a rich flavor foundation for soups, broths, and stews, making it easy for you to create authentic Japanese meals at home. You can use it to prepare classic dishes like miso soup, udon, soba, or sukiyaki, adding depth to your cooking. The stock is convenient to use because just one teaspoon can flavor 3 to 6 cups of broth, allowing you to adjust the taste to your preference. Its resealable 2.2-pound bag ensures freshness and easy storage for multiple uses.

What We Like
Rich umami flavor
Convenient and quick preparation
Resealable packaging
Great for Japanese dishes
Long freezer shelf life
What We Don't Like
Flavor may require adjustment
Concerns about shelf stability
#TOP 2

Eden Foods Bonito Flakes

0024182002164
Eden Foods Bonito Flakes Cover
Eden Japanese Bonito Flakes, Shaved Skipjack Tuna, Katsuobushi 鰹節, Traditionally Aged and Dried, Hardwood Smoked, Make Dashi and Miso Soup, 1.05 oz

This product features sea vegetables and is categorized as bonito flakes.

What We Like
Fresh and high quality
Authentic Japanese flavor
Versatile culinary uses
Natural cat treat option
Enhances dashi and soups
What We Don't Like
Some flakes arrive crushed
Mild or subtle flavor
#TOP 3

Yamahide Hana Katsuo Bonito Flakes

Yamahide
Yamahide Hana Katsuo Bonito Flakes Cover
Yamahide Hana Katsuo Bonito Flakes, 1 Pound

Yamahide Hana Katsuo Bonito Flakes is a 1lb bag of fish flakes that come in a 6"L x 5"W x 4"H package. It is a great treat for cats and is much cheaper than the versions you can buy in pet stores. Customers have noted that their cats love the product, and it is a great way to get a finicky cat to eat. The flakes are large and the bag is almost completely full when you receive it. It has an excellent flavor and customers have found new uses for it every day.

What We Like
Large bag, long-lasting
Fresh, high-quality flakes
No additives or sodium
Loved by pets
Reasonable price
What We Don't Like
Some pets uninterested
Bag size may be overwhelming
#TOP 4

Cat-Man-Doo Extra Large Dried Bonito Flakes

4OZ BONITO BAG
4 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Cat-Man-Doo Extra Large Dried Bonito Flakes Cover
Cat-Man-Doo Extra Large Dried Bonito Flakes Treats for Dogs & Cats - All Natural High Protein Flakes - 4oz. / 112g Bag

Cat-Man-Doo Bonito Flakes are larger and moister than typical bonito treats, giving your pet a fresher and more appealing snack. These flakes come from wild-caught bonito fish off Japan’s southeast coast, known for their rich flavor and quality. The natural fish oils in these flakes support your pet’s urinary tract health and help reduce hairballs, making them a great choice for grooming and wellness. Plus, they help keep your cat’s or dog’s fur shiny and healthy. Whether you serve them as a treat or sprinkle them on food, these flakes offer a tasty and nutritious option for your furry friend.

What We Like
Excellent cat appeal
Natural low-calorie treat
Freshness and quality
Helps picky eaters
Large bag lasts long
What We Don't Like
High price
Large flake size
#TOP 5

Yamahide Hanakatsuo Japanese Bonito Flakes

Yamahide
ISSVWO
Yamahide Hanakatsuo Japanese Bonito Flakes Cover
[ 2 Packs ] Yamahide Hanakatsuo Japanese Bonito Flakes 2.82 Ounces

Yamahide Hanakatsuo Japanese Bonito Flakes is a product of Japan, containing two plastic bags of 3.52 ounce Bonito flakes (jikabiyaki honkatsu). It can be used as a base stock for soups and broths, and cats go crazy for it. Customers have praised its size and flavor, but noted that the bags are not resealable and the price is a bit high.

What We Like
Rich umami flavor
High quality and freshness
Versatile culinary uses
Generous packaging size
Cat-friendly food topper
What We Don't Like
Minor packaging issues
Flavor not for everyone
#TOP 6

Kaneso Tokuyou Hanakatsuo

Kaneso Tokuyou Hanakatsuo Cover
Kaneso Tokuyu Hanakatsuo, Dried Bonito Flakes 3.52 Oz

Kaneso Tokuyou Hanakatsuo is a top-quality dried bonito flakes product that comes in a 3.52 Oz bag. It is a great treat for cats, as it helps to make their coats shine and is a huge hit with cats. Customers have noted that their cats love the taste of the flakes and that they are not too salty. Some customers have even noted that their cats will ask for the flakes when they run out.

What We Like
Fresh, flavorful aroma
Great value for price
Versatile usage (cats, cooking)
Generous package size
Well-packaged for shipping
What We Don't Like
Some fine flakes in bag
#TOP 7

Shirakiku Premium Dried Gourmet Bonito Flakes

Shirakiku Premium Dried Gourmet Bonito Flakes Cover
Shirakiku Premium Dried Gourmet Bonito Flakes - Smoked Japanese Bonito Fish Flakes - Pre-Cut Thinly slice packed with umami flavor to Make Traditional Japanese Dishes - Resealable Package - 16 Ounces

Shirakiku Premium Dried Gourmet Bonito Flakes are all-natural and nutritious, adding a bold and smoky flavor to Japanese dashi stock. These low-sodium and high-protein fish flakes are an essential part of traditional Japanese cuisine, used extensively as an additional flavoring and a stylish topping. The larger surface area ensures maximum umami flavor infusion when boiled, and the super thin texture melts in your mouth when used as a topping.

What We Like
Large bag size
Versatile use for cats and cooking
High quality flakes
Economical alternative for cat treats
Resealable packaging
What We Don't Like
Possible packaging inconsistency
Some bags contain more dust
#TOP 8

J-BASKET Bonito Flakes 10ct

J-BASKET Bonito Flakes 10ct Cover
J-BASKET Katsuo Bushi Soft Dried Bonito Flakes 10ct

The J-BASKET Bonito Flakes are a convenient addition to your kitchen. These soft, dried bonito flakes are perfect for enhancing the flavor of various dishes. You can easily sprinkle them over soups, salads, or rice to add a savory umami taste. Each pack contains 10 individual servings, making it simple to use just the right amount without waste. The high-quality bonito flakes are sourced for their rich flavor, ensuring that your meals are both delicious and satisfying. Enjoy the convenience and versatility these flakes bring to your cooking routine.

What We Like
Convenient individual packets
Freshness preservation
Enhances Japanese dishes
Good value for price
Versatile usage
What We Don't Like
Slight fish smell initially
Some flakes more crushed
#TOP 9

Marutomo Dried Shaved Bonito Flakes

マルトモ
000SA 284507
Marutomo Dried Shaved Bonito Flakes Cover
Marutomo Dried Shaved Bonito Flakes, 0.1oz x 5 Count

Marutomo Dried Shaved Bonito Flakes are a traditional Japanese ingredient used to make soup stock or add extra flavor. This package contains five individual 0.104 Oz. packets, with a net weight of 0.52 Oz. Customers have praised the quality of the product, noting its excellent flavor and ability to curl up on steaming fresh rice. The only downside is that some customers have reported receiving fewer packets than they ordered.

What We Like
Fresh and delicious taste
Long shelf life
Convenient small packaging
Great for pets and people
Versatile flavor enhancer
What We Don't Like
Not for everyday use
Flavor may not suit everyone
#TOP 10

Ninben Dried Bonito Flakes

にんべん
sample_sku_35304
Ninben Dried Bonito Flakes Cover
[Ninben] Authentic Dried Bonito Flakes (Hana Katsuo: 花かつお) Fresh Pack | Japanese Katsuobushi (鰹節) | Fresh & Original Flavor | Dried Shaved Skipjack Tuna | Product Of Japan (0.95 Oz x 5 Packs + 1 Bonus Pack)

Ninben Bonito Flakes are thinly sliced dried skipjack tuna flakes that bring a deeper, richer flavor to a variety of Japanese dishes. These all-natural flakes are made from smoked, dried, and fermented fish, resulting in a complex flavor profile. Packed in an airtight package to ensure freshness, these bonito flakes can be used as toppings for salad, toast, rice, okonomiyaki, tofu, and more. With over 300 years of experience, Ninben has been supplying specially selected dried skipjack tuna to support the authentic Japanese taste. Add Ninben Bonito Flakes to your favorite dishes and experience the true essence of Japanese cuisine.

What We Like
long-term product reliability
fresh taste
individually packaged servings
blends well in recipes
cat-friendly topping
What We Don't Like
smaller quantity than described
slightly fishy flavor
Buying Guide Image

Tips for Finding the Best Bonito Flakes

Introduction

Bonito Flakes, also known as katsuobushi or dried bonito, are a staple in many Japanese dishes. They are made from dried and smoked skipjack tuna, which is then shaved into thin, flavorful flakes. They add a subtle flavor and texture to many dishes, from soups and sauces to rice dishes and grilled meats. But with so many brands and varieties available, it can be hard to know which Bonito Flakes to choose.

In this guide, we’ll explain the differences between the types of Bonito Flakes, how to identify high-quality flakes, and some of the top brands to consider.

Types of Bonito Flakes

When it comes to Bonito Flakes, there are two main types: Katsuobushi and Niboshi.

Katsuobushi, or dried bonito, is made from skipjack tuna. It is dried and smoked, then shaved into thin, flavorful flakes. It is the most common type of bonito flakes and is used in a variety of dishes.

Niboshi, or dried sardines, are made from small sardines that have been dried and smoked. They have a stronger flavor and aroma than Katsuobushi and can be used in soups and sauces.

How to Identify High-Quality Bonito Flakes

When it comes to buying Bonito Flakes, you want to make sure you’re getting the highest quality product. Here are some tips for identifying high-quality flakes:

  • Look for flakes that are a consistent size and shape.
  • Check the color of the flakes. High-quality flakes should be a light brown color.
  • Smell the flakes. They should have a pleasant, smoky aroma.
  • Feel the flakes. They should be lightweight and have a crunchy texture.

When it comes to purchasing Bonito Flakes, there are a few popular brands to consider.

One of the most popular brands is Ajinomoto, a Japanese food company that produces a variety of products, including Katsuobushi. Their flakes are made from premium skipjack tuna and have a light, smoky flavor.

Another popular brand is Marusho, which produces Katsuobushi and Niboshi flakes. Their flakes are made from high-quality fish and are lightly smoked for a flavorful, subtle taste.

Finally, there’s Takara Shuzo, which produces a variety of Katsuobushi and Niboshi flakes. Their products are made from fresh fish and are lightly smoked for a rich, flavorful taste.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Bonito Flakes can be a challenge. But by understanding the differences between the two main types of flakes, learning how to identify high-quality flakes, and knowing which brands to consider, you’ll be able to make an informed choice. With the right flakes, you’ll be able to add a subtle flavor and texture to a variety of dishes and enjoy a delicious, authentic Japanese meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are dried bonito flakes healthy?

Yes, dried bonito flakes are considered healthy. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, niacin, and B12. Regular consumption of bonito flakes, also known as Katsuobushi, is believed to improve brain function and metabolism. It may also help reduce the risk of diseases like dementia, heart disease, and diabetes.

2. Can humans eat bonito flakes?

Yes, humans can eat bonito flakes. They can be enjoyed as they are or used in various dishes as an add-on, topping, or ingredient. In Japanese cuisine, bonito flakes are commonly used to make dashi, which is a traditional broth or soup stock.

3. What does bonito taste like?

Bonito has a strong and distinct flavor. It is similar to tuna but with a taste that is somewhat of a cross between a mackerel and a tuna. The meat is not as dense as tuna and is oilier and fattier.

4. Do bonito flakes taste fishy?

Yes, bonito flakes have a smoky, savory, and slightly fishy flavor. They are known for their umami taste, which is a source of savory flavor. Umami is considered one of the five fundamental tastes, along with sweet, sour, salty, and bitter.

5. What are the side effects of dashi?

Dashi, which is made from bonito flakes among other ingredients, may have some potential side effects. These can include headaches, nosebleeds, insomnia, skin redness, nasal congestion, dizziness, nausea, dyspepsia, hot flushes, shortness of breath, and visual disturbance. It's important to consume dashi in moderation and be aware of any personal sensitivities or allergies.

6. How much mercury is in bonito?

The mercury content in bonito can vary. For example, one study found that a bonito had a mercury concentration of 1.60 ppm. It's recommended to be mindful of the mercury levels in fish and consume them in moderation, especially for sensitive individuals like pregnant women or young children.

Editor's Notes

During our bonito flake research, we found 24 bonito flake products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 51,385 customer reviews through our big data system to write the bonito flakes list. We found that most customers choose bonito flakes with an average price of $15.77.

The bonito flakes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of bonito flakes, including Ajinomoto, Eden, Yamahide, Cat-Man-Doo, Kaneso. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 148 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!

Bonito Flakes Comparison Table

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#TOP10
Brand Ajinomoto Eden Yamahide Cat-Man-Doo Yamahide Kaneso Shirakiku J-BASKET マルトモ にんべん
Units 35.27 Ounce 1.05 Ounce 17.6 Ounce - 5.34 Ounce 3.52 Ounce 16 Ounce - 2.6 Ounce 3.62 Ounce
Item Form Liquid - - Stick Flake Flake Flake Flake Flake Flake
Item Weight - 1.12 ounces 16 Ounces 3.2 ounces - 3.52 Ounces - 20 Grams 0.52 Ounces 0.95 Ounces
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
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