Food is any nutrient-rich substance consumed by humans or animals for energy and survival. It is usually of plant or animal origin, and includes carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and water. The process of eating and the absorption of food into the body are central to human and animal life, and are facilitated by the digestive system. Humans have evolved to use a wide variety of foods, each providing different kinds of nutrients in various ways. Food is also a vehicle for cultural expression and social interaction.
In the modern world, the production and consumption of food is complicated by a wide range of factors, including climate change, population growth, and globalization. Food security is a major concern, especially for people living in regions where there are chronic shortages of food due to drought, war, or natural disasters. In developed countries, the rising cost of fuel and the desire for healthier lifestyles are reducing demand for some foods. In developing nations, however, hunger and malnutrition remain widespread problems.
Historically, most people acquired their food by hunting and gathering, or through the cultivation of crops and raising of livestock. The development of agriculture enabled people to produce food in large quantities and in a consistent manner. As a result, a wide range of foods became available to the public. The development of horticulture and agronomy contributed to the diversity of fruits, vegetables, and grains that are now staples in many diets.
Some foods are minimally processed, and others are more heavily processed. In the latter category are foods that have been modified to make them last longer, or to enhance their flavor and texture. Examples of minimally processed foods include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and some dairy products. The most highly processed foods are canned and frozen meats, fruits, vegetables, and seafood. These foods are often enriched with salt, sugar, or artificial additives.
The quality of a food is determined by its taste, aroma, color, and texture. Foods that are pleasant to the eye and tongue encourage people to eat them. Foods that are bitter, bland, or sour discourage eating, and foods that are dry and tough or sticky are difficult to chew.
Writing about food requires a unique set of skills, including descriptive language and sensory imagery. The use of similes and metaphors is often effective, but cliched food words like “tasty” and “delicious” are best avoided. Some writers write about food in an autobiographical style, and some combine food writing with travel or culture writing. Food writing can also be controversial, especially when it involves ethnic or regional cuisines that are seen as being derogatory or exploitative. This is sometimes called “food appropriation,” in which people from outside a culture profit from that culture’s cuisines. The practice is especially offensive when it involves Mexican, Chinese, or Indian cuisines. It is also important to avoid sexism in this genre of writing.