Japan, a country known for its rich cultural legacy and technological advancements, has another overlooked hidden treasure that plays an important part in shaping the future of its youth: The Japanese school lunch program. On a recent trip to Japan, I had the opportunity to witness firsthand the rigorous preparation, cultural depth, and nutritional perfection that characterize Japanese school lunches. This article will take you on a journey through my visit, revealing the secrets of Japan’s unique approach to school lunches and the influence it has on students’ well-being and growth.
1.NOURISHING MINDS AND BODIES: INVESTIGATING NISHIMACHI INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL’S LUNCH PROGRAM
As I headed down to the Nishimachi International School to observe their school lunch program, I was accompanied by NAKADA Tomoko, a member of the Japan Dietetic Association’s board of directors. She is also a diet and nutrition teacher in Tochigi Prefecture. While discussing with her the impact of the school lunch program, she told us the program was initiated after World War 2 when Japan faced extreme food scarcity and as a result, children suffered the most having the highest cases of Malnourishment. This is when the government came into action and a school lunch program was initiated.
Over the years, the program has been kept simple with the focus on one thing, to keep meals natural and to teach the children the value of meals in their daily lives. Discussing her role, she stated “I take care to transform school meal menus into learning materials,” she explains. For example, if children learn in home economics classes that traditional local cuisine is created by utilizing non-wasteful products, they will be more aware of the need to prevent food waste and will be more inclined to finish their meals.
Nakada makes it a point to provide proper understanding to youngsters through food and nutrition education. “A meal can have long-term consequences for an individual, beginning with the time spent in the womb.” Nothing makes me happier than seeing children learn about nutrition via play.
2.JAPAN’S GLOBAL IMPACT: NURTURING COMMUNITIES AND MINDS THROUGH SCHOOL LUNCH AID
Japan also assists in the introduction of school lunches in other nations. The aid not only helps the nutrition of the children who receive such meals, but it also improves the general quality of their education. For example, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has been assisting local communities in Madagascar since 2017, assisting them in providing students with community-based school lunches.
The aid is part of the School for All project, which aims to improve the learning environment by having parents and guardians prepare school lunches in turn. The program had grown to 146 schools by 2019. While nutritional inadequacy remains a major concern for children in Madagascar, many may now get the meals they require through school lunches, which increases their drive to learn.
3.CULTIVATING INTELLECTS: JAPAN’S COMMITMENT TO WELL-BALANCED AND HEALTHY SCHOOL MEALS
A commitment to providing balanced and nutritious meals to pupils is at the heart of Japan’s extraordinary school lunch program. Each meal is meticulously planned to include all essential food categories, ensuring that students get the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients they need for growth and cognitive development.
3.1 Staple Grain
Steamed white rice, a staple in Japanese cuisine, serves as the primary source of carbohydrates and provides essential energy.
3.2 Protein
Students are served a variety of proteins, such as fish, chicken, tofu, or legumes, supplying essential amino acids for muscle growth and overall health.
3.3 Vegetables
A colorful array of vegetables, both cooked and raw, is included to provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber
3.4 Dairy
Many school lunches include milk or dairy products to offer calcium for strong bones and teeth.
3.5 Fruit
Fresh fruit or fruit-based desserts provide natural sugars and additional vitamins. The meticulous selection of ingredients ensures that the school lunch menu remains diverse, offering a broad spectrum of flavors and textures to students. School lunches in Japan are a balanced blend of tradition and modernity. They do more than just fuel the body; they expose students to a world of cultural diversity. These meals feature both Japanese and international cuisines, promoting an appreciation for a wide range of flavors and culinary traditions. Many school lunches include milk or dairy products to offer calcium for strong bones and teeth.
JAPAN’S SOME COMMON DISHES FOUND IN JAPANESE SCHOOL LUNCHES INCLUDE:
a)Nikujaga
A comforting Japanese stew made with meat, potatoes, carrots, and onions in a sweet soy sauce-based broth.
b)Pasta Salad
A fusion of Japanese and Western cuisines featuring pasta, vegetables, and a light dressing.
c)Maki-Sushi
Sushi rolls filled with an assortment of ingredients such as vegetables, fish, or egg, offering a delightful taste of Japanese tradition.
d)Kare Rice
Japanese curry served with rice, often accompanied by a side of pickles for a tangy contrast.
e)Breaded Fish
A popular protein source often served with a side of tartar sauce and shredded cabbage.
The inclusion of such diverse dishes not only delights the palate but also educates students about different cultures, promoting cultural awareness and understanding.
4.FOOD EDUCATION IN ACTION
Japanese school lunches offer more than just nourishment; they serve as a powerful tool for food education. Students are actively involved in various aspects of the meal preparation process, creating a holistic learning experience. These activities include:
4.1 Setting Tables
Students help set tables and arrange utensils, plates, and chopsticks, learning about proper table etiquette and presentation.
4.2 Serving Food
They take turns serving food to classmates, practicing portion control, and ensuring equitable distribution.
4.3 Cleaning Up
After the meal, students are responsible for cleaning their eating area, teaching them about cleanliness and cooperation.
4.4 Meal Planning
In some schools, students participate in meal planning and decision-making, encouraging them to consider nutritional balance and dietary preferences. This hands-on approach not only teaches practical life skills but also instills a sense of responsibility and discipline in students. It reinforces the idea that mealtime is not just about consumption; it’s a collective effort that involves cooperation and respect.
The dedication to sustainability in Japan extends to its school lunch program. Many ingredients are sourced locally, which reduces the carbon footprint of long-distance transportation. This strategy benefits local farmers while also teaching students the value of healthy food choices and environmental stewardship.
The small amount of food served at Japanese school lunches is one of their distinguishing qualities. Students are encouraged to eat their entire meals, and leftovers are frequently repurposed or recycled. From a young age, this practice instills a sense of reducing waste and being productive.
5.HEALTH BENEFITS
Japan’s school lunch program has good health benefits for its students. Japanese children have one of the lowest rates of childhood obesity in the world. Focusing on healthy eating, portion control, and nutritious foods has led to incredible success. Studies show that Japanese students who regularly eat lunch at school experience: stimulates intelligence and encourages students to listen well and learn well.
5.1 Healthy Weight
A balanced diet and portion control will help students maintain a healthy weight.
5.2 Reduce the Risk of Food Allergy
Exposure to many foods at an early age can reduce the risk of food allergy.
5.3 Reduce the Risks of Malnutrition
School lunches ensure students get the essential vitamins and minerals they need for growth and development.
6.CULTURAL AND SOCIAL BENEFITS
Besides food, Japan’s school lunch is also a platform for cultural and social exchange. By eating together in class, students strengthen connections and improve interpersonal relationships. Eating together creates a sense of community and belonging, helping to create a positive and inclusive school.
When the school lunch crew returns, they will begin serving the meal to their classmates. Students learn to serve and handle hot soup and other hot dishes with care, as well as portion control and time management. Everyone, including those serving, is hungry, so the kids must work together to get the lunch started as soon as possible.
Students are also expected to serve their teachers. Unlike kids, who are supposed to line up and obtain their food from their classmates, the school lunch crew must deliver their meal to the homeroom teacher’s desk. Japan’s Healthy School Lunch Program is a shining example of the country’s commitment to the healthy development of its students. Young Driven by the importance of nutrition, literacy, safety, and life development, Japan’s approach to school lunch goes beyond success. It nourishes young minds and bodies, instills responsible values and environmental awareness, and fosters a sense of community that extends beyond school age.
While the school lunch team prepares the meal, the other kids prepare themselves and their classroom. They would be divided into small groups to dine together in a more sociable atmosphere than the typical classroom arrangement of solitary desks all facing the blackboard. They’d assemble their desks, wipe them off, and then lay down their cloth placemats and tiny towels/washcloths/napkins brought from home.
As other countries grapple with the problem of improving the health of young people, Japan’s school lunch is a good example to follow.
