Japan is experiencing a swift increase in the provision of free school meals, including traditional bento boxes. This change in policy aims at reducing student poverty and improving child welfare. The initiative has gained significant momentum in many prefectures across Japan. However, it is unknown how quickly this will be implemented nationally or the potential effects on local economies supporting school catering.

Access to nutrition and overall wellbeing of students is a significant concern in Japan. The adoption of free school lunches including bento boxes aims to alleviate child poverty and improve educational outcomes. “Bento”, a traditional Japanese lunch, is significant culturally, making this news emotionally resonant among Japanese citizens.

In the United States, free and reduced-price lunch programs exist, but they are often aimed only at students from low-income families. In contrast, the proposed changes in Japan aim at a more universal provision. European Union countries have varying policies, with some like UK providing free meals to all primary school students, while others have targeted programs similar to the US.