Tag: Food sociology

According to the World Health Organization, improved nutrition is linked to stronger immune systems and lower risks of chronic disease. This field of study, known broadly as nutritional science, is the science that studies the relationship of food and its impact on the human body and wider society.

According to social scientists, the statement, 'Your culture influences the types of foods you eat,' is not just true but a foundational aspect of human behavior. This influence is deeply ingrained from early childhood, dictating everything from taste preferences to mealtime rituals. Understanding this connection reveals why our plates look so different around the world and how these habits affect our health and identity.

Research consistently shows that culture is one of the most significant determinants of our food choices, often superseding physiological needs alone. From religious beliefs and family traditions to social rituals and environmental availability, numerous cultural factors that affect food choices are at play, shaping everything from our individual plates to global dietary patterns.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), global food and agricultural trade reached $1.9 trillion in 2022, yet this massive economic value only scratches the surface of the myriad other purposes for which we use food. From deep-seated traditions to modern digital expression, the functions of our meals extend far beyond basic sustenance, prompting a fascinating look at what else is food used for.