Gender On A Plate

Food culture became 'divisive', enveloped in gender stereotypes.

- Swikriti Swarnkar

Why are food choices dictated by society as 'masculine' and 'feminine'?

Food is no longer a means of satisfying hunger; instead, it has become a bowl of discussion about gender-based food. The classification of food in terms of gender seems strange, but it's prevalent in our society. The phrase "Meat is for men, and salads are for women" ironically defines food choices and classifications.

I feel like discussing this topic, as it propels me to think: Why does it still exist anyway?

One of my friends, who works as a bartender in the USA, shared an incident where a male customer approached him to voice his reservations about ordering the same fruity cocktail as his girlfriend. The drink was usually served in a martini glass, which he deemed too 'feminine'.

He was worried about their male friends teasing him about his order and asked to have the cocktail served in a 'manly' whiskey glass instead. We both laughed while discussing this stance, but it made me think about the mindset that still prevails in modern society.

We have never considered how slowly food became categorised by gender. It has become a symbol of gender identification, and we now see explicitly gendered foods making their appearance.

Gender-Based Food Dichotomy

The aspect of the platter expanded when food on a plate was categorised as masculine and feminine. It's no surprise when a man being vegetarian is seen as less masculine just because of his food preference. The tendency to categorise food based on societal expectations affects personal choices and freedom. For example, a protein-rich, heavy diet is seen as preferred by males, while lighter, plant-based, organic foods are for females, according to societal norms. Thus, stereotypes, assumptions, and cultural norms influence and restrict personal meal choices.