FUNDAMENTALS OF FOOD TECHNOLOGY (1+1)

Social Functions of Food

• Food has always been a central part of our social existence. It has been a part of our community, social, cultural and religious life. Special foods are distributed as a benediction or Prasad in the religious function in homes, temples and churches. Feasts are given at specific stages of life such as birth, naming ceremony, birthdays, marriages, etc. Most of the religious festivals also call for feasts and feeding of specific segments of the population. Certain menus are associated with most of these feasts in each region.

• Food has been used as an expression of love, friendship and social acceptance. It is also used as a symbol of happiness at certain events in life, for example, pedhas are distributed to announce success in examinations, or the birth of a baby: laddus are associated with the celebration of Deepavali and marriage, cakes are associated with Christmas and birthday and tilgul with sankranti the festival of friendship.

• As food is an integral part of our social existence, this function is important in daily life. Refreshment served at get-together or meetings create a relaxed atmosphere. The menu for such get-together should bring the people together, rather than divide them. This basic aspect should be considered in planning menus for such occasions.