Tag: Food vs non food

According to Merriam-Webster, a word dating back to the 16th century, the term "edible" simply means safe to eat, without regard to taste or palatability. This reveals a critical nuance: does edible mean fit to be eaten? Not necessarily, as many factors beyond basic toxicity influence whether a food is truly desirable and safe for consumption.

According to the World Bank, over 700 million people still faced severe food insecurity in 2023, highlighting the critical importance of understanding food as a resource for survival. Fundamentally, food is any substance consumed to provide nutritional support and energy, while non-food items are goods or materials that are not meant for consumption. The distinction is crucial for public health, safety, and humanitarian aid efforts, though the lines can sometimes blur due to cultural practices or industrial processing.

While all coconut oil derived from the fruit of the coconut palm is technically edible, the **difference between edible coconut oil and coconut oil** on store shelves typically refers to its level of processing. The true distinction lies between minimally processed, flavorful virgin coconut oil and the refined, neutral-tasting version optimized for high-heat cooking.