health
February 4, 2026
I'm a nutritionist from Japan: 12 popular longevity foods kids actually love
In Japan, home to some of the world's longest-living people, parents are very mindful of the snacks they feed their kids. Japanese nutritionist and longevity expert Michiko Tomioka shares her homeland's most popular healthy foods for children.
TL;DR
- Japanese snacks ('oyatsu') are important for children's energy and are seen as a chance for 'shokuiku' (food education).
- Healthy snacking emphasizes real, whole foods, minimizing added sugar and ultra-processed ingredients.
- Snacks are divided into three categories: grab-and-go (fruits, crackers, seaweed, nuts), 'shokuiku' time (mochi balls, tofu dumplings, onigiri, hummus/guacamole), and comfort foods (sweet potatoes, chia pudding, fish pockets, chia pancakes).
- Recipes for mochi balls ('dango') and tofu dumplings are provided.
- The importance of teaching basic cooking skills and healthy eating as life skills is highlighted.
- Parents are advised to consult with a doctor or nutritionist for individual child needs.
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