I spent last Thanksgiving observing a big difference at the dinner table. My family had the classic dishes: sweet potato casserole topped with marshmallows, canned cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole made from a recipe on a can of fried onions.
Meanwhile, my partner sent me photos from their family gathering, which featured heritage turkey, homemade cranberry chutney, and fresh vegetables from a local farm. Same holiday, yet two very different food worlds.
Food tells a story about where we come from. It’s not just about what’s on the plate, but the deeper connections we have with it. For me, growing up in a lower-middle-class family in Sacramento, food was essential. It was about fuel and comfort and often dictated by a budget.
Years of writing about food culture have unveiled patterns in eating habits that reflect someone’s upbringing. Here are seven key habits shaped by our early experiences with food.
Cleaning Your Plate
In my home, finishing every bite wasn’t a choice; it was a rule. My grandmother lived through tough times and made sure food never went to waste. Now, I still catch myself eating more than I should at restaurants, even when I’m full.Judging Shopping Carts
Last week, I noticed someone at the store buy expensive organic berries. My instinctive thought was, “Must be nice.” Growing up, my family was careful with every purchase. Tracking prices was part of the routine, while others don’t think twice about what they buy. This reflects deeper feelings about food as a luxury versus a necessity.Restaurants as Special Events
Dining out in my family was a rare treat, saved for special occasions. We’d carefully check the menu prices and be grateful just to be there. In contrast, my partner’s family eats out frequently, treating it as a normal choice, not a special occasion.Comfort Foods from the Past
My comfort food has always been Kraft mac and cheese, rooted in memories of my childhood. For my partner, it’s homemade coq au vin. Processed foods often symbolize safety and reliability for those who had to budget tightly, while fresh, homemade options represent abundance and time in the kitchen.Strong Views on Leftovers
Leftovers in my house were planned, not random. Anything that could be saved or repurposed was used. I cringe when my partner easily discards food after two days, the waste feels painful to me.Skepticism about New Foods
I remember being doubtful when I heard about jackfruit tacos. Having grown up with classic options, trying unfamiliar foods felt risky. Wealthier families often encourage adventurous eating, leading to different relationships with food.Associating Fancy Foods with Abundance
Certain foods in my childhood were saved for big occasions. Shrimp, fresh berries, and special cheeses indicated a celebration. For those with wealth, these foods were simply a regular part of life.
Rudá Iandê’s insights on inherited beliefs struck a chord as I realized many of my food habits come from my history. They reflect a learned response to limited resources, shaping my views on food and money.
None of these habits are inherently bad; they are adaptations based on real-life circumstances. But it’s crucial to identify them. Recognizing where these patterns come from can help us decide which ones still serve us and which we might want to change.
Ultimately, understanding our relationship with food is a journey worth savoring.
