The Science and Craft of Artisanal Food

The Science and Craft of Artisanal Food explores the science behind artisanal food production, comparing methods used to create beer, wine, chocolate, coffee, cheese, honey, olive oil, and fruits and vegetables. It highlights the differences in practices that cause artisanal food to vary in composition, flavor, and texture from mass-produced food, and teaches readers how to assess the producer's messages to evaluate their authenticity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 20 June 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Consumers today are increasingly concerned about the origins of the food they consume, and artisanal food embodies these concerns. Artisanal food is produced through tailored processes that prioritize raw materials, aiming to achieve the vision of the artisan. The Science and Craft of Artisanal Food provides a comprehensive exploration of the science behind small and large-scale food production, distinguishing artisanal practices from conventional commercial methods.

The book is written in collaboration between scientists and artisans, comparing the production techniques used to create a diverse range of products, including beer, wine, chocolate, coffee, cheese, honey, olive oil, and fruits and vegetables. These expert contributors highlight the distinct differences in practices that contribute to the unique composition, flavor, and texture of artisanal food compared to mass-produced food.

For example, the choice of specific breeds of milk, grapes adapted to local climates, olives and cacao from historically important cultivars, or coffee beans from specific regions can have a profound impact on the final product. This book aims to reveal the factors that differentiate artisanal food and teach readers how to assess the authenticity of producer messages.

By delving into the science and craftsmanship behind artisanal food, readers gain a deeper understanding of the importance of sourcing and production methods in creating exceptional and authentic culinary experiences.

Weight: 344g
Dimension: 216 x 145 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190936587