Book on the history of food habits

In summary, the conversation is about finding a book that covers the human history of food from ancient times (at least 10,000 years ago). The book should also discuss the geological differences in the biological needs of humans, meal times, and the use of food as medicine. It should also touch on the evolution of eating habits, from wild animal meat to domesticated animals and farming, as well as the impact of geography on plant and animal distribution. Some recommended books on the topic are "The Variation of Animals and Plants under Domestication" by Charles Darwin, "Plant Evolution under Domestication" by Gideon Ladizinsky, and "Plants and Diet in Greece from Neolithic to Classic Periods" by Fragkiska Megal
  • #1
mktsgm
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I am looking for a good book in English about the human history of food since ancient times. Perhaps at least 10000 years since.

I would like to cover geological differences in the biological needs. (Like how Eskimos manage macronutrients from fish). The book should throw light on meal times, and the use of food as Medicine etc.

I expect the history of change in eating habits from wild animal meat to cattles and to farming. Riverside settlements from food perspective etc.

A cursory glance on cuisine would suffice.

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
The Variation of Animals and Plants under Domestication : Volume I & II(Illustrated)
by Charles Darwin

Plant Evolution under Domestication
by Gideon Ladizinsky

Plants and Diet in Greece from Neolithic to Classic Periods (British Archaeological Reports British Series)
by Fragkiska Megaloudi

http://www.nationalgeographic.com/foodfeatures/evolution-of-diet/

... National Geographic is the least technical, Megaloudi is more technical or archeological
 
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  • #3
Actually, thinking on this, Jared Diamond's ' Guns, Germs, and Steel' explains plant and animal geography (which is what you are asking) in the best modern way possible - IMO. Plants and animals can be moved along latitude pretty easily. Wheat moved rapidly from the Punjab region into the Mediterranean basin, for example. Going North or South takes a lot longer. The domesticated organism has to deal with different photoperiod, duration of hot/cold periods, and so on.
Chile is a major producer of temperate fruits - apples, grapes, blueberries, etc. During winter months in the North. Same latitude 35°- 45°S

Diet == what humans can gather, grow, hunt, scavenge, steal, or barter for. When somebody sees that a distant neighbor has some really new and useful plant or animal, they may barter for something they can use to grow their own. For example, chickens are not native to the British Isles. But British archeologists have long noted a sort of swept out depression in the doorway most of the sites of neolithic huts. Nobody knew how they got there. Then they ran a 'modern neolithic' village for a while, they let the people living there have some chickens because one site in Britain had a few chicken bones. Voila. Every time chickens came in from the rain they rolled around in the dry dust just inside the doorway. Every hut had a depression in the dirt at the door. Indirect proof that chickens were ubiquitous back then.
 
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  • #4
Thank you for the great references Jim!
 
  • #5
Thank you Jim.
 

1. What is the purpose of writing a book on the history of food habits?

The purpose of writing a book on the history of food habits is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how our eating habits have evolved over time. It explores the cultural, social, and economic factors that have influenced our food choices and sheds light on the origins of different cuisines and dishes.

2. Who would be interested in reading a book on the history of food habits?

This book would be of interest to anyone curious about the origins of different foods and how they have become a part of our daily lives. It would also appeal to those interested in cultural studies, anthropology, and food history.

3. How is the information in this book researched and verified?

The information in this book is extensively researched through various sources such as historical documents, journals, and books. It is also verified by consulting with experts in the field of food history and cultural studies.

4. Can this book be useful for understanding current food trends?

Yes, this book can provide valuable insights into how food trends have developed over time and the factors that have influenced them. It can also help readers understand the cultural and societal impact of current food habits.

5. Is this book suitable for academic purposes?

Yes, this book can be used as a reference for academic purposes, particularly in courses related to food studies, cultural studies, and history. It provides well-researched information and can serve as a starting point for further research on the topic.

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