Nomadic Food: Anthropological and Historical Studies around the World

Food habits have become just as nomadic as other objects, such as telephones and computers, and food industries have seized control of this trend to make it the characteristic feature of consumption outside the home. Mobility, in the sense of multiple forms of moving about using public or individual, and possibly intermodal, means of transport, on spatial scales and temporal rhythms which are frequent and recurring but variable, can serve as a basic premise to gain insight into the concept of food nomadism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 19 March 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

In this captivating book, a diverse group of contributors delves into the multifaceted concept of nomadism by examining the intricate relationship between food habits and cultural identity. The realm of food and beverage products has undergone a remarkable transformation, mirroring the mobility of other objects like telephones and computers. Traditionally, only food and money were capable of traveling alongside their carriers, but today, the culinary world has embraced this nomadic trend, creating a new standard of consumption outside the home. The result is a fast-paced, convenient, and always-available culinary experience, characterized by the availability of just-in-time meals, snacks, finger food, and street food. These terms not only shed light on the contemporary modernity and widespread adoption of food practices but also hint at the modified versions of older and less common behaviors.

To gain a deeper understanding of food nomadism, it is essential to consider mobility, encompassing a range of modes of transportation, both public and individual, and potentially intermodal. This mobility operates on spatial scales and temporal rhythms that are frequent and recurring but variable, responding to professional or leisure needs. By examining the ways in which individuals navigate these diverse mobility patterns, we can uncover the essence of food nomadism and its profound impact on cultural identity and culinary traditions.

The book explores various aspects of food nomadism, including the cultural significance of food, the role of technology in shaping food practices, and the economic implications of food mobility. Contributors from diverse fields, such as anthropology, sociology, geography, and culinary studies, offer their insights and perspectives, providing a comprehensive examination of this fascinating phenomenon. Through their research, the book challenges traditional notions of food consumption and explores the ways in which food practices are intertwined with social, economic, and environmental factors.

In conclusion, this book offers a thought-provoking exploration of the world of food nomadism, shedding light on the many meanings and implications of this cultural phenomenon. By examining the relationship between food habits, mobility, and cultural identity, it provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of contemporary society. Whether you are a food enthusiast, a cultural studies scholar, or simply someone interested in understanding the world around you, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to broaden their horizons and gain a deeper appreciation of the diverse and fascinating world of food.

Weight: 553g
Dimension: 206 x 161 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538159644