Tag: Cultural food norms

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, proper nutrition supports muscle strength, boosts immunity, and lowers the risk of chronic diseases. Beyond this fundamental biological need, our relationship with food is shaped by a complex interplay of environmental, social, and psychological factors.

Over two billion people worldwide, predominantly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, regularly consume insects as part of their diet. For non-vegetarians in many cultures, the intentional consumption of insects, or entomophagy, is a traditional and accepted practice, though this varies significantly based on regional and personal food norms.

Research has consistently shown that people eat significantly more when dining with friends and family than when eating alone, with meals increasing in size as the number of fellow diners grows. The seemingly personal act of eating is, in fact, profoundly social, shaped by a wide array of influences that extend far beyond simple hunger.

According to Statista data from 2025, mainland China reported the lowest share of people regularly consuming sweets and chocolates among surveyed nations, making it a strong contender for which country eats the least candy. This low consumption rate is a stark contrast to Western countries and is rooted in deep-seated cultural, economic, and dietary factors.