traditions and customs relating to the food

The way we eat is indeed changing, and some of the traditions and customs that are associated with food from the past are being lost. This change, as a consequence of the society we are in, has both positive and negative impacts.

Our lives, unlike before, are becoming increasingly fast-paced, and we try to value the little free time we have, rather than squandering it on time-consuming tasks such as the preparing and the cooking of the family meal. In addition, people are increasingly aware of the need to have a nutritious and healthy diet in order to stave off disease and illness as well as to promote a longer and fuller life. Modern agribusiness has brought about a fundamental change in the raising of dairy animals, poultry and crops, as well as the customs, traditions and beliefs associated with agriculture. We no longer practice rituals for bumper harvest, nor do we observe customs for the food we consume in such a serious manner as before, except on some special occasions.

The positive side of this change is that we now eat much better than our ancestors; we all have more access to more food and more kinds of food than at any time in history, which has led to increased lifespan, health and general well-being. Furthermore, health food has increased in popularity as increasing numbers of people think more seriously about their physical well-being. The traditional ‘big breakfast’ has generally lost its appeal and is usually replaced by something light, tasty and fresh. Dietary importance outstrips that of customs which might be practised at the dining table.

However, on the negative side, ignorance on the awareness of some special foods has also occurred. Some people, especially younger people, have little knowledge of some of the traditions and customs that centre on the food offered on a special occasion or for a special day. For example, in Iran, fish and rice is now consumed as an ordinary food rather than as its cultural significance, as it used to be eaten on the New Year’s Night.

The positive has emerged alongside with the negative from the changing ways we eat. Humans will continue to change the food they eat and the ways in which that food is prepared and eaten. However, the long-cherished and observed traditions should also be passed down to the next generation as this ‘culinary culture’ is deeply rooted in a nation’s heritage, culture and conventions. (424 words)