UK Welcomes the Unique Strawberry and Cream Sandwich Trend from Japan**

As the UK supermarket M&S launches its strawberry and cream sandwich, the unusual concept inspired by Japan's beloved "furutsu sando" has taken the British public by surprise, blending culinary traditions and sparking debates over sandwich definitions.**

In an unexpected fusion of culinary cultures, the UK embraces a delightful twist on a classic — the strawberries and cream sandwich. While strawberries and cream have held a cherished spot in British tradition since the 1800s, the idea of combining them within a sandwich is a fresh novelty, recently introduced by Marks & Spencer (M&S). This limited-edition offering incorporates strawberries with whipped cream cheese on sweetened bread, drawing inspiration from the viral Japanese fruit sando.

Takings from M&S indicate strong demand; the sandwich quickly became the chain's top seller just two days post-launch. Despite the peculiar image of fruit wedged between slices of bread, this practice isn’t new in Japan, where "furutsu sando" have captured the hearts of many. Originating from fruit parlors that allowed customers to taste fruits, these fruit sandwiches have gained momentum online, particularly as tourists share experiences from their Japanese travels.

Typically made with soft, sweet white bread filled with fruit and whipped cream, flavors can range from strawberries to clementines. According to Shuko Oda, chef at London’s Koya restaurant, these sandwiches not only present a visually appealing dish but also create a playful texture experience. In Japan, they are frequently purchased from convenience stores and enjoyed alongside savory options.

The concept of a fruit sandwich sparks philosophical questions regarding the core definition of a sandwich itself. Do they need to be savory? Must they be encased in traditional bread? Heartening examples within the UK, such as the nostalgic banana or jam sandwich, prove that fruit as a sandwich filling isn’t unheard of. The historical narrative of the sandwich credits John Montagu, the fourth Earl of Sandwich, who famously requested meat between bread to keep his hands free for card games.

Naturally, the food world is filled with diverse sandwiches that would suit adventurous eaters — from the Vietnamese bánh mì to the cheesy croque monsieur from France and the robust Francesinha from Portugal, each bringing unique flavors and styles. As the UK contemplates the endearing strawberry and cream sando inspired by Japan, it opens the door to endless culinary creativity and exploration around the concept of sandwiches.