Food is something we consume on a daily basis to provide our bodies with energy, nutrients and sustenance. Writing about food is a complex subject that encompasses a wide variety of styles and genres, including cookbooks, short and long journalism pieces, memoirs, the culinary mystery, non-fiction food history or foodways with a full-on anthropological focus and academic research papers. Considering the many factors that influence what people eat, food is a valuable and fascinating topic for any writer to explore.
Food begins at the farm (e.g. agriculture of animals or plants) and proceeds through the food production steps to the final product consumed. This includes the harvesting of raw ingredients, processing foods into finished products and storing foods for future consumption. The nutritional value of foods varies considerably and is influenced by genetics, climate, culture and traditions. Foods may be fresh or frozen for longer-term storage.
A healthy diet is a balance of different types of foods from each major group, providing the body with necessary vitamins, minerals and nutrients to function optimally. These groups include fruits, vegetables, grains and proteins. Healthy eating habits also promote good health, reduce the risk of disease and help people feel more energized throughout the day.
The amount of food a person consumes is influenced by age, size, activity level and health needs. People with special dietary concerns should consult a doctor or registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice.
A person’s diet can vary by country, but even within a single nation, people’s preferences for different kinds of foods depend on a wide variety of factors. A person living near a coastal region may consume more fish than someone farther inland, for example. Climate also influences what foods are available, with people in cool regions preferring a greater variety of seasonal crops than those in warmer areas where growing seasons are shorter.
Vegetarians, pescatarians and omnivorous people all choose to exclude some meats from their diets while including other types of animal and plant products. Most people, however, are able to eat a wide range of foods and have some flexibility in their diets.
A person’s sense of taste and the experience of eating can be a powerful part of their identity, so food writers should try to convey these nuances in their writing. When possible, write about the sights, smells and textures of a dish to give readers a more fully immersive experience that will help them connect with the food they eat. For example, if you’re writing about a seafood restaurant, describe the scent of the sea and the sound of waves crashing against the shore to set the scene for your reader as they enjoy their meal.