For human beings, food goes beyond the role of providing for essential nutrients. However, the food we eat reveals to others our personality, social backgrounds, culture, religion, beliefs and even experiences. Different economic, cultural, social, historical, and individual aspects shape our eating behaviors. Out eating behaviors or food choices, similar to other cultural practices and expressions gives hidden information on how we view ourselves, define our sense of belonging to a certain group, shape our identities and even define our boundaries from others (Derkas, 2012). Different global religions follow specific dietary laws, particularly regarding meat consumption. Jewish people tend to follow the stringent and elaborate kosher system, Hindu or Buddhists tend to follow a vegetarian diet, and Catholics tend to restrain from consuming meat on Friday.
Notably, the fact that Muslim does not consume pig meat or pork creates not only a religious boundary but also a socio-cultural and economic distance because their food behaviors influence the type of food, particularly meat that is available in the area (Almerico, 2014, p. 3). Apart …show more content…
Rare, expensive, and labor-intensive foods signify upper social class. For example, when growing up most foods, especially white meats or source of quality proteins was treated as luxuries. Those who can afford regular consumption of chicken and were and are still viewed as rich, as most of the low-income families, consume cheap and easily accessible food products. Similarly, the type of food restaurants or brand has created a change towards personal identity and the division of classes that continue to trigger innovations of different cutlery education, techniques, and equipment. This has created another way on how the society perceives different
Notably, the fact that Muslim does not consume pig meat or pork creates not only a religious boundary but also a socio-cultural and economic distance because their food behaviors influence the type of food, particularly meat that is available in the area (Almerico, 2014, p. 3). Apart …show more content…
Rare, expensive, and labor-intensive foods signify upper social class. For example, when growing up most foods, especially white meats or source of quality proteins was treated as luxuries. Those who can afford regular consumption of chicken and were and are still viewed as rich, as most of the low-income families, consume cheap and easily accessible food products. Similarly, the type of food restaurants or brand has created a change towards personal identity and the division of classes that continue to trigger innovations of different cutlery education, techniques, and equipment. This has created another way on how the society perceives different