Evolution and Strengths of School Lunch Programs in the United States and Japan

Authors

Sarah Ritterling, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

First Advisor

Linda Young

Second Advisor

Marianna Burks

Date of this Version

5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Citation

Ritterling, S. (2025). Evolution and Strengths of School Lunch Programs in the United States and Japan. Undergraduate Honors Thesis. University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Comments

Copyright Sarah Ritterling 2025

Abstract

School lunches around the world perform a vital role in children’s nutritional needs and overall health. These nutritional programs provide a chance for children to learn how to create a balanced meal and about the production and serving of food. However, many countries, including the United States and Japan, have taken different approaches to meet these goals, influenced by the needs of children and communities over time. The United States provides support, funding, and nutritional standards through the National School Lunch Program. Japan promotes the Basic Act of Shokuiku (food and nutrition education) within society and outlines goals for schools through the School Lunch Act. This honor’s thesis explores the historical development of programs in the respective countries, as well as analyzes the current school lunch programs with a focus on Lincoln, Nebraska in the U.S. and Shintotsukawa in Hokkaido Prefecture in Japan. This research establishes that both Lincoln and Shintotsukawa play a substantial role in supporting children in their communities - especially through nutritional support. Farm to School activities and the use of local, fresh food and balanced meals are some of the strengths within the U.S. system. Japan prioritizes comparable activities and utilizes a school lunch nutritionist in most schools to strengthen the connection between fulfilling nutritional requirements and the importance of learning about nutrition to sustain a healthy lifestyle.