Panko Breadcrumbs??

I have often read in American recipes in the list of ingredients Panko(Panco?) Breadcrumbs listed and I wonder where can I get these here in the UK, as I have searched in specialist stores and online!! Also, what is the difference between these and normal breadcrumbs and whether or not I can use normal breadcrumbs as a substitute!!

Thanks!!

Well they are used a lot in Asian/Oriental cooking, so I am sure you could find some in an Asian/Oriental food shop.

They are used mostly in frying....as a coating....and give a really crunchy finish. Imagine coconut shrimp. I see no reason why you couldn't substitute regular breadcrumbs, but Panko has like a larger grain to it and makes things extra crunchy. It won't quite be the same without them.

They'd be in the Asian section. Tesco has them, certainly, and I know there are a few varieties in my local Waitrose.

http://www.tesco.com/groceries/product/details/?id=268582625

Wow!! Didnt realize that Tescos would stock them!!LOLOLOL

Yeap, was going to say, easily bought in Tesco.   

Its incredible!! I live completely opposite a brand new recently rebuilt Morrisons and I always end up going further afield to get stuff!!