It is meant to honor all: from the natural elements that supplied the ingredients, the people who grew the produce, to the ones who prepared and cooked the meal, etc.
The term Itadakimasu can be traced back to ancient Japan's Asuka period when Buddhism was the dominant religion in the region.
), eastern religion, specifically Buddhism, views all on an equal level, and as a result, uses Itadakimasu as a symbolistic phrase to share their respect and honor.
[1] To summarize, the text implies that before eating, you should take a moment to honor and appreciate what you have; all nature, animals, the emperor, and your parents.
When the book was released to the public (popularized during the Shōwa period), the habit of saying itadakimasu before meals was heavily encouraged by the Jōdo-Shinshū sect of Buddhism, slowly leading to the integration of the phrase into daily life and the cultural prominence it has today.