2023 Volume 81 Issue 3 Pages 129-137
Objective: To elucidate food education policy in Taiwan under the Food and Agricultural Education Act implemented in 2022.
Method: A literature analysis of materials accessible online (mainly government documents) focusing on the backgrounds and policy framework under the Agricultural Education Act.
Result: The framework for food education policy in Taiwan is structured by the central promotion committee, the development of basic plans at the central and regional levels, and professional training and nationwide collaboration at all institutional levels (governments, industries, schools, and communities). These elements are essentially similar to the policy structure in Japan under the Basic Act on Shokuiku. However, Taiwan's food education policy includes unique characteristics, like the centrality of agriculture, gender/family consciousness, and respect for diversity and openness of its food cultures. These aspects can potentially overcome the challenges faced by Japan's food education.
Conclusion: Despite the delay from Japan and South Korea, Taiwan's food education brings worldwide implications. Further research is needed to understand the actual implementation of the agriculture-based core philosophy in the educational fields.
