Understanding Uni Grades: What You Need to Know
At Hokkaido Uni Shop, we’re proud to offer some of the finest Uni (sea urchin) available. But if you’ve ever received a box that looks slightly different from what you saw on our website, you’re not alone—and there’s a good reason behind it. We recently received a thoughtful question from a customer who noticed this exact thing. Let’s walk through why this happens and what it means for the Uni you’re receiving.
Why the Packaging May Vary
Uni is a delicate product, and grading is an essential part of how it’s brought to market. In Japan, Uni is typically graded into five tiers: AAA, AA, A+, A, and Regular. These grades are based on several factors including texture, color, uniformity, and freshness.
One of our most popular offerings is the Gokujo AAA Uni—a premium-grade product known for its consistency and rich, creamy flavor. However, it’s important to understand that Gokujo is a designation used at market for the highest quality Uni on that particular day. Each morning, the top trays are selected and graded. So depending on the day or region, the packaging and labeling may vary—even if the grade remains AAA.
Here are some example of Gogkujo Uni Brand Selection by Hokkaido Uni Shop
Akatsuki
Kakumatsu
Sato
Hirayama
Kanetomi
What Does “A SP” Mean on My Box?
You may have received a box labeled “A SP” rather than “AAA.” Don’t worry—this doesn’t mean your Uni is of lower quality. The label “A SP” is sometimes used by Uni processors to group Uni that falls under the market grading spectrum of A to AAA. The exact breakdown happens at the time of sorting at Toyosu Market or the factory. This system allows for flexibility in packaging while maintaining top-tier quality control.
Kitamrausaki SP Selection
Higashizawa #1
Hadate #8
Different Packaging, Same Exceptional Quality
We work with several top-tier Uni producers in Hokkaido—like Ogawa, Kaneshin, and Ichikawa Suisan—who consistently supply us with Uni that meets Gokujo standards. However, seasonal conditions, water temperature, and feed (like Hokkaido’s high-grade kelp) all influence the flavor, appearance, and texture of Uni. So even within the AAA grade, there can be subtle differences from batch to batch.
The World of Uni Is Vast—and Worth Exploring
While many companies produce Uni, only a select few are trusted to deliver true AAA-grade quality on a consistent basis. If you ever have a chance to visit Toyosu Market or tour a processing facility in Hokkaido, you’ll see firsthand how much effort and care goes into each tray. Until then, we’re here to bring that quality directly to your door.
So if you see a box labeled “A SP” or slightly different packaging from what you expected, know that it’s still the same Gokujo Uni we proudly stand behind. The label may change depending on the source and the day, but the quality remains premium.
As always, if you have questions, we’re happy to help.
Feel free to reach out at hokkaidounishop@gmail.com or check Hokkaido Uni Selection at Hokkaido Uni
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