ABSTRACT
India is an excellent example of multiethnicity as there are countless landscapes, languages, and some of the most exquisite and delicious food. The diversity in food consumption is reflected as we move geographically from the northern tip to down south and from the Western Ghats to the east. Influence of religion on consumption of food in India has spawned from the multicultural and diverse traditions followed by the people of the country. There are various ancient religious texts and scriptures extolling the virtues of vegetarianism, the argument that was put forth was that it was integral for good health, and spiritual progress. A healthy diet is considered vital for spiritual development in Hinduism. Food consumption and cultural identity in Islam has a mutual relationship. Religious identity shapes food culture. There has been a long going controversy between the Judaizing and Hellenizing branches of the church during the earliest years of Christianity.
