In pictures: Japan's food crisis

But one reason for the fall in the food self-sufficiency rate in Japan is the changing dietary habits of the Japanese.

Today their diet is becoming increasingly westernised.

Their fondness for burgers, and pizza and other western dishes means they are eating more fat and protein than they used to and much of that has to be imported.

Studies show that like other nations, they are eating more processed food, and eating out more in restaurants.