Foodie

Foodie is a term that refers to a person who has an ardent or refined interest in food and who eats food not only out of hunger but due to their interest or hobby. The terms "gastronome" and "gourmet" define the same thing, i.e., a person who enjoys food for pleasure.

Origin of the term

The term "foodie" was coined in the early 1980s by Paul Levy and Ann Barr, who used it in the title of their 1984 book The Official Foodie Handbook.

Characteristics

Foodies are a distinct hobbyist group. Typical foodie interests and activities include the food industry, wine tasting, cooking, food photography, and other food-related topics such as food sustainability, gastronomy, and restaurants. They are also known to be especially interested in discovering and trying new food experiences, rather than simply eating out of convenience or hunger.

Foodie culture

Foodie culture has been on the rise over the past few decades, thanks in part to the proliferation of food-focused media such as food television channels, gourmet magazines, food blogs, and social media. This has led to an increased interest in food and a greater appreciation for culinary arts.

Criticism

Despite its popularity, the term "foodie" has been criticized by some for being a pretentious label for a common human behavior - eating. Critics argue that the term is elitist, suggesting that foodies are somehow superior to those who simply eat to live.

See also

• Gastronomy
• Gourmet
• Culinary arts
• Food industry