Tag: Traditional washoku

While the traditional Japanese diet is famous for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and minimally processed foods, a recent study published by the National Institutes of Health indicates that highly processed foods account for approximately one-third of the average daily energy intake for Japanese adults. This reveals a complex reality behind the modern Japanese diet and raises the question: just how processed is food in Japan today?

While milk is a staple in many Western countries, Japan's per capita consumption is significantly lower, representing just one-third of levels seen in the UK or the US. The reasons behind this trend are a complex blend of genetic predispositions, deep-seated cultural traditions, and historical influences that have shaped the Japanese diet for centuries.

According to a 2020 study published in the *British Medical Journal*, people who adhered closely to traditional Japanese dietary guidelines experienced a lower risk of premature death, especially from heart disease. So, is the Japanese diet actually healthy, or is its reputation simply due to a few popular components like sushi?