Food culture and the importance of serving food correctly

When we serve food correctly, we preserve our traditions, create a sense of community, and show respect for the diversity in our world. So, the next time you sit down at the dining table, think about the rich food cultures around the world and how you can honor them by serving food correctly. Our food culture is important to us. For those from a different culture, everything may feel foreign. It is then important to have clear instructions so that the serving does not go completely wrong. We expect to receive the Christmas food in a certain order on the Christmas table. For those who have never seen dipping in the pot, this must feel exotic.

Today, many different celebrations can be celebrated in a nursing home, they can be a traditional Swedish midsummer celebration or a holiday that has been celebrated in another country for many years and which the resident would appreciate continuing to celebrate in the nursing home. Meals together with the celebration are often very important for the elderly. If I were to serve a traditional Japanese or Persian meal, I would have big problems. I have no idea what the food should look like or in what order different parts of the meal should be served. It must be the same for those coming from another country.

The diversity of food cultures

Food is not just fuel for the body; it is also an important part of our culture, tradition, and identity. Different parts of the world have their unique food cultures, and how the food is served plays a significant role in preserving and celebrating this diversity. The world is a melting pot of cultures, and each culture has its unique eating habits, recipes, and traditions. From spicy Indian curry to delicate Japanese sushi, from hearty Italian pasta to flavorful Mexican tacos, each food culture carries a treasure of flavors and dishes that have developed over centuries.

Food as part of cultural heritage

Food is an important part of our cultural heritage. It tells stories about our ancestors, our migrations, and our rituals. Through food, we can understand our history and feel a sense of belonging to our origins. When we serve food correctly, we honor our ancestors and our traditions.

The meal creates community

Serving food correctly is also an important part of creating a sense of community. Meals are often times for families and communities to gather, share stories, and create memories. Different cultures have their own ways of sharing food, such as eating with hands in many African countries or sharing several dishes as in China. Following these traditions helps to build strong bonds and promote unity.

Respect for other cultures

In an increasingly globalized world, it is important to show respect for other cultures, including their eating habits. Serving food from different cultures correctly shows that we value and respect diversity. It also helps to promote understanding and tolerance between different groups.

How the food is served makes a difference

How food is served is as important as what is served. Using the correct utensils, setting, and cooking techniques are crucial to maintaining the authenticity and flavor of a dish. For example, eating sushi with chopsticks and serving it on beautiful ceramic plates is part of the Japanese dining experience. Similarly, eating spaghetti with a fork and spoon and serving it in a deep plate is part of the Italian tradition.

There are many traditions or things that are obvious to a native Swede but may not be logical at all for those from another origin and vice versa. There can be many ways to present how the food should be served. One is to send pictures of how the food is supposed to look after being set up on the unit. Many units get their food delivered from a food supplier and asking them to actually send a picture of the intended setup is not an unreasonable request.

What is unique in Swedish food culture

Swedish food culture is unique and diverse, with a mix of traditional dishes and modern influences. Here are some unique features of Swedish food culture:
Smorgasbord: The smorgasbord is a classic Swedish food tradition that offers a wide selection of dishes and accessories. It includes herring in various flavors, salmon, meatballs, prince sausage (small sausages), crispbread, and various kinds of cheese. The smorgasbord is particularly popular during holidays like Christmas and Easter.
Fika: is a Swedish institution that involves taking a break to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea together with a piece of cake or bun. It is a social ritual that brings people together and encourages relaxation and conversation.
Surströmming: is a controversial Swedish dish consisting of fermented herring. It has a strong smell and is a taste experience that divides opinions, but for many Swedes, it is part of their cultural heritage and a traditional part of autumn festivities.
Lingon: is a common ingredient in Swedish food culture and is used as an accompaniment to many dishes. Lingonberry jam is often served with meatballs and other meat dishes, and its tart taste balances well against the salty and fatty.
Crispbread: is a traditional Swedish bread that is thin, crispy, and long-lasting. It has been an important part of the Swedish diet for centuries and is still very popular.
Christmas table: Christmas is a holiday with many traditional dishes in Sweden. The Christmas table usually includes things like Christmas ham, prince sausage, meatballs, porridge, and various kinds of herring. Rice porridge is often served as dessert with an almond hidden in it, and the one who finds the almond gets a present.
Sustainability: Swedes are known for their commitment to sustainability and organic products. This is reflected in the food culture through an increased demand for locally produced and organic foods and an interest in reducing food waste.
Influences from other cultures: Modern Swedish food culture is also influenced by global trends and international cuisines. You will find restaurants serving everything from Thai curry to hamburgers and sushi in Swedish cities.

Read more:Näringsbehov

Reflection - food culture
Care staff:
- What do you do to support each other so that food is put up in a nice and appetizing way?
- Do you have good routines so that the dessert's jam does not end up on the fish or the herring ends up on the rice porridge?
- Some have passed diet, how do you make it look good?
- Do you make songbooks and stimulate sing-alongs or other activities in connection with holidays or other festive meals?

Manager, nurse, occupational therapist, and physiotherapist:
- What do you do to ensure that the elderly get beautifully arranged meals?
- Is it possible to get your food supplier to send pictures of how the food is intended to be served?
- Do you ever go out and look at what the plates look like when the food is served?
- Are schnapps, beer, and wine ever included in what is served?

Resident and relatives:
- Do you feel that the staff has good knowledge of food culture and what is important for your relative in connection with meals?

Erland Olsson
specialist nurse
Sofrosyne - Better care every day