Appreciation or appropriation

Appreciation or appropriation? The history of food and eating practices is inherently complex. Food choices are influenced by cultural values and are an important part of the construction and maintenance of social identity. However, what is authentic to a cuisine or culture now may not be in the future. The Columbian Exchange is a great example that foods have disputed (and complicated) origins, and histories. “Authentic” cuisine is just a relative term, not black or white, but an ever-evolving shade of gray.  Think about immigrant communities, such as Italian Americans, recreating the dishes of their home and adapting cooking in their new home—is this food less authentic than Italian food from Italy? What about “ethnic” restaurants in all metropolitan capitals all over the world? Are cross cultural exchanges of food inherently exploitative or can they be viewed acts of appreciation?

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