Food Culture

Food. We eat it every day without really thinking of the significance of it. It is more than something that nourishes our bodies (or in some cases doesn't nourish our bodies) . It is a window into our culture and the culture of those before us. Asian food in particular I have always felt bears an important cultural mark. The food of each country is very distinct.  Each style of food that is country-specific holds a place in history. What may be unusual to some is the norm for others.

There are infinite flavors that have resulted from centuries of using produce or spices specific to a region or country. I have been lucky enough to try many different types of food, and I love trying new things because it is not only a new experience but it provides insight into an unfamiliar culture. For instance France is known for their cheese, whether it be Brie or Camembert, it has grasps a piece of France's culture. Italy is known for pasta and biscotti, Japan for sushi, and Greece for gyros. Each country has a food (or many foods) that is just theirs.

In more modern days it appears that the distinction of a food's nationality has become less significant.  Due to the ease of travel among other factors, we have gained remarkable insight into the cultures of others, and therefore the staple food items of other countries. While it is fantastic that we can gain this insight, countries are also now able to produce the same types of food that once were only found in that country. Perhaps this is specific to the United States because we are a blend of many nationalities rather than our own. For instance on any given day if I have a craving for a specific type of food whether it be Indian, Japanese, or Thai, I can have it (as long as I'm up for a maximum 30 minute drive). It is both amazing and daunting the ease with which I can access the food that once was only obtainable in the specific country. It is daunting because of the speed and ease with which our cultures are blending. Soon enough there will not be individual cultures because we will adopt aspects of other cultures, this blending many of them. We have already begun fusing food, such as Asian-American fusion. Food is one of the primary aspects that is blended, and whether it be for better or worse, it allows us to appreciate and admire the history  and individuality of other countries.