Technology/ Innovation: Japan Nutrition - Expanding the Registered Dietitian System as a Socially Implemented Nutrition Infrastructure in Asia
This initiative presents Japan’s nationally institutionalized Registered Dietitian and Dietitian system as “Japan Nutrition,” a socially implemented public nutrition infrastructure that can be adapted and scaled across Asia. In Japan, licensed nutrition professionals are integrated into healthcare, schools, community health services, elderly care, and disaster response under a national qualification framework. This system provides continuous nutrition support throughout the life course. By combining professional education and continuing development, collaboration with local governments, and public awareness programs, Japan has successfully reduced health disparities and improved dietary quality. The model offers a practical and policy-integrated approach to strengthening sustainable nutrition systems in the region.
Overview of Technology/ Innovation:
This proposal redefines Japan’s Registered Dietitian and Dietitian system not merely as a professional training model, but as an integrated public nutrition infrastructure that connects policy, workforce development, and service delivery. It offers a scalable institutional framework for ADB member countries. Building on initiatives advanced since the 2021 Tokyo Nutrition for Growth Summit, the Japan Dietetic Association has been promoting nutrition improvement in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. In Lao PDR, stunting among children under five and maternal malnutrition remain critical challenges, while a formally institutionalized nutrition profession does not yet exist. Structural gaps persist in both human resource development and policy implementation. In December 2025, JDA signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR, to support the establishment of a dietitian training program, curriculum development, and community-based interventions focusing on maternal and child nutrition and school nutrition education. Through collaboration with ADB technical assistance and investment projects, this model can be progressively expanded to support:
- Legal and regulatory frameworks for nutrition professionals
- Standardized education and training systems
- Integration of nutrition services into primary healthcare and school systems
By institutionalizing nutrition professionals as part of public infrastructure, this initiative can accelerate the implementation of sustainable food and nutrition policies while strengthening human capital across Asia.
Website: dietitian.or.jp
Country: Japan