The food we eat provides our bodies with the energy and nourishment they need to keep us going. It also plays a large role in our social lives. Whether we’re sharing a family recipe that has been passed down through generations or discussing how to make the best use of a new ingredient at a restaurant, food is often more than just a meal. It can tell a story, provide an escape and even bring people together.
The most basic food is the nutrient-rich material eaten by plants and animals for growth and sustenance. Plants make their own food through photosynthesis, while animals eat other organisms and organic matter to obtain the nutrients they need. Humans have also created new types of foods that can be prepared quickly and conveniently, such as canned soups and canned meats.
A person’s eating habits are strongly influenced by culture. During the Renaissance, for example, people used their food as a way to demonstrate their wealth and sophistication. Food also plays a major part in many religious ceremonies.
In developing countries, a poor harvest or drought may cause famine. When this happens, families will typically eat only the most nutritious and filling foods they have on hand. This can lead to a diet high in fats, sugars and salt, which is commonly known as junk food.
People who work in the food industry focus on developing foods that are safe, healthy and enjoyable to eat. They study the chemical and biological properties of foods to help develop food products that meet consumers’ expectations for taste, texture and color. They also work with producers to ensure that production processes yield quality ingredients and end products.
The most common way to start writing about food is to blog or write reviews for restaurants and other food-related businesses. This is an excellent opportunity to practice your skills and gain a following that can lead to paid assignments with established publications.
As you become more familiar with the food writing genre, you can start to expand your skills by experimenting with different styles and topics. For instance, try writing about a local food event that is occurring, such as a culinary festival or a food tour.
Be sure to avoid using words that devalue a culture’s cuisine. For example, never describe a dish as “odd,” “strange” or “weird.” These terms have negative connotations and show a lack of understanding about other cultures. Also, never suggest that someone “discovered” a cuisine; this carries the suggestion of colonialism.