Food is an important part of the daily routine, something most people enjoy three or more times a day. Writing about it is an important form of journalism, and the subject matter encompasses a broad spectrum of worthy topics and genres: food reviews, restaurant blogs, long and short journalistic pieces (from profiles to investigative stories), culinary fiction, memoir, nonfiction food history and foodways (with a full-on anthropological concentration). The best way to approach any article about food, however, is with enthusiasm, compelling description, detailed accuracy and an emphasis on knowledge and research.
A basic definition of “food” is the nutrient-rich substance that is consumed by an organism to sustain life. The human body requires a variety of foods to function, from the simple carbohydrates found in fruits and vegetables, to the complex carbohydrates found in grains, to the protein-rich proteins of meats, fish and dairy, to the fats of oils and butter. A balanced diet includes a mixture of these foods to provide all of the essential nutrients for good health.
Most of the world’s population does not grow their own food, but rather buys it from stores or markets. Some people grow their own crops, while others raise animals for meat, eggs and milk products. A small percentage of the population eats only vegetarian food, while most people also eat animal products in some form.
Several types of nutrients are needed to maintain good health: carbohydrates, protein, fats and vitamins and minerals. A variety of foods provides all of these, with carbohydrates coming primarily from cereal grains like wheat, rice and corn (maize), plus fruits and vegetables. Proteins are found in meat, poultry and fish as well as in beans, nuts and seeds. Fats, such as those found in butter and fatty fish, are necessary for hormone production and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Minerals are found mainly in fruits and vegetables, but also in meats, fish and dairy products.
The food pyramid outlines the suggested amount of each of these different types of foods that people should consume daily. The most important nutrient for most people, though, is fiber, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
In addition to its nutritional value, food also serves other purposes. It often brings family and friends together for social interaction, and it can evoke memories and emotions. In some cultures, certain foods hold cultural significance and are part of ceremonies and traditions. Skipping meals or eating an imbalanced diet can lead to illness and disease.
Creating engaging, mouthwatering reading experiences is challenging when writing about food, but using sensory language and creative metaphors can make an article about a meal or dish memorable for readers. The most successful food writers are able to take the reader through an entire eating experience, from the taste of a dish to its aroma as it cooks on the stove.