Kamshoku

Kamshoku (Japanese: 完食) refers to the act of completely finishing a meal, leaving no food remaining on one's plate or in the serving dish. It carries a connotation of appreciation for the food and respect for the person who prepared it. In Japanese culture, kamshoku is often seen as a sign of good manners and is implicitly encouraged, particularly when being served by others. While not explicitly mandated, leaving food uneaten can sometimes be interpreted as a subtle expression of dissatisfaction or an inability to fully enjoy the meal. The concept is connected to wider cultural values surrounding food waste and respect for resources.