Tag: Cultural heritage

According to a 2023 study published in *Nature Food*, while vegan diets have the lowest environmental impact, a significant portion of the global population still identifies as meat-eaters, often for nutritional, cultural, or economic reasons. Exploring why isn't eating meat unethical involves a nuanced look beyond simple black-and-white perspectives, considering arguments grounded in history, nutritional science, and practical ethics.

Across the world, food is not merely sustenance, but is deeply intertwined with culture, tradition, and belief. From ancient myths to modern holidays, certain foods have long been attributed symbolic meanings related to life, death, and rebirth. Understanding these culinary traditions provides profound insights into how different societies interpret existence, abundance, and the human condition.

Globally, over two-thirds of children between 6 and 23 months do not receive the minimum recommended dietary diversity, highlighting a critical public health challenge. Understanding why is dietary diversity important for society reveals its profound impact beyond individual plates, touching every aspect of community and global well-being.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), rice serves as the primary staple food for over half of the world's population, with production reaching approximately 510 million tonnes of milled rice in 2023. However, the idea of a single "best" food is a misconception, as what is considered number one depends entirely on the criteria used for ranking.

The consumption of insects, or entomophagy, has been a central part of Mexican culture for thousands of years, long predating the arrival of the Spanish. Today, more than 500 species of edible insects are consumed in Mexico, representing a deeply rooted culinary tradition. What began as a vital protein source has evolved into a symbol of cultural identity, a prized delicacy, and a sustainable food source for the future.

Originating from Vietnam's royal courts during the Nguyen Dynasty, lotus tea is a beverage of great reverence and complexity. Renowned for its exquisite floral fragrance, this traditional brew is sought after not only for its delicate taste but also for a remarkable array of health benefits.

According to a 2013 New York Times report, a study revealed that Old Order Mennonite communities showed lower levels of the chemical BPA in their bodies, partly due to less consumption of packaged foods. This finding prompts a closer look at whether Mennonite food is healthy, examining its reliance on fresh, unprocessed ingredients alongside its traditional high-fat dishes.

South Korea holds a dominant position in the global bamboo salt market, accounting for a significant share of both production and consumption. The practice of making bamboo salt, known as *jukyeom*, originated in Korea over a thousand years ago with Buddhist monks using it for therapeutic and medicinal purposes. This article explores the cultural significance and market dynamics of this traditional Korean condiment.

The Bitterroot (Lewisia rediviva) is so important to western Montana that it is the official state flower and gave the Bitterroot Valley its name. The significance of bitterroot extends far beyond its delicate pink flowers, as it holds profound cultural, historical, and ecological importance, especially for Indigenous peoples of the region. This resilient plant has served as a vital food source, a powerful medicinal remedy, and a symbol of heritage for generations.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), over three billion people worldwide rely on fish as a significant source of protein. However, the importance of fish to human life extends far beyond the plate, encompassing vital roles in health, the environment, the economy, and our cultural heritage.