Learn. Cook. Eat Japanese!

The Wa-Shokuiku program is inspired and informed by the educational philosophy, flavors and food of Japan.

Wa-Shokuiku combines the Japanese words “Washoku(和食)” which refers to Japanese food and, “Shokuiku(食育)”, food education. Washoku, literally harmony in food, is recognized as one of the world’s healthiest diets. Shokuiku, a government-mandated school curriculum in Japan, promotes knowledge about food as well as the ability to make appropriate food choices. Food knowledge can include basic understanding of nutrients, manners, understanding and appreciating the labor and production necessary for to create a meal and food environment. 

Japanese Food Knowledge:
Origin, nutrition and preparation of basic Japanese recipes  

Balanced Diet:
Variety of methods to introduce concepts of a balanced diet. Ex: 5 colors (red, green, yellow, black, white); 5 tastes (bitter, sour, salty, sweet, savory); 5 senses (smell, taste, touch, sight, sound)

Presentation:
Me de taberu – Eat with your eyes

Manners and Customs:
Eating together (Kazoku danran); Proper placement of plate and chopsticks; Chopstick etiquette

Respect and Appreciation:
Itadakimasu; Gochisosama deshita

Hygiene:
Wash hands and learn to count to 10 in Japanese

Language:
Simple Japanese words relevant to the topic

Food-related issues in local and global communities:
Food waste; Unwholesome eating; Food insecurity

Japanese inspired daily actions and habits to address food issues:
Mottainai - not to be wasteful; Harahachibu - eat until 80% full; TABLE FOR TWO program/osusowake – share what you have with others; Japanese Kyushoku concept - school lunch