Japan’s school cafeterias follow a strict philosophy that prioritizes fresh, minimally processed food over convenience. Most schools serve meals cooked from scratch each day, using whole ingredients like rice, vegetables, fish, and seasonal produce. Highly processed items such as sugary snacks, sodas, and fast food are largely excluded, not by a single sweeping ban, but through national nutrition standards and local school policies.
These meals are designed not only to nourish students but also to teach healthy eating habits and respect for food. As a result, school lunch in Japan is treated as part of education itself, shaping lifelong dietary behavior rather than just filling stomachs.
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