Food and culture

Food: its place in our lives Food is vital for our existence It is a part of our social and cultural life. The preparation and consumption of food is often connected with routines and rituals. Think about the meals you consume over the day What are your routines? Do rituals such as prayers accompany your meal? Are there other rituals like Sunday night leftovers or Friday fish and chips ?

Food and celebrations Think about the role of food in your daily life and in family and cultural celebrations. Which foods and drinks do you particularly enjoy at celebratory times? Are these everyday, occasional or special occasion foods? Are there special routines and rituals relating to foods which accompany these celebrations? Describe a festive day and the food that is prepared and eaten.

Multiple ways of preparing food. The type of food and its preparation can be very varied. Foods may be served raw, marinated, boiled, baked, grilled and fried. They may be combined with other foods, herbs and spices or just served plainly. Think of all the ways a potato, rice or eggs can be prepared or served. Note any national dishes that use these ingredients.

National dishes Research the national dishes for as many countries and cultures as you can. Why have these dishes become important or popular? Do other cultures enjoy these dishes too?

Food and Festivals Easter Christmas Passover Diwali Halloween Think about the special food we associate with the festivals such as; Easter Christmas Passover Diwali Halloween Valentine’s day Birthdays.

Multicultural provision Many cultures also have practices that specify the type and preparation of food. These are often associated with religious practices. Some food or drink may be prohibited or restricted, too, such as at times of fasting. Often there are religious or philosophical reasons for these restrictions.

Vegetarians and Vegans Teacher’s Notes People may choose not to eat meat or animal products for health, philosophical or cultural reasons. Research the definitions and distinctions between vegetarians, lacto-ovo vegans and lacto-vegetarians. How can adults ensure children who follow these diets get all the important vitamins and minerals that they might have got from foods such as meat and eggs?

Vegetarians and Vegans Design a poster or wall chart showing the essential foods to be included in the diet of vegetarian or vegan toddlers and young children and the benefits of these foods