ABSTRACT
Food habits are among the most deeply ingrained forms of human behaviour. Sharing food in the sociable setting of the meal is not only enjoyable but also has fundamental symbolism for the solidarity of families and the reproduction of relationships. Time-honoured food habits and meal patterns are said to be dissolving under the pressure of modern life. Dickinson and Leader report one survey that found that two-thirds of evening meals in Britain are now consumed in front of the television. However, most food cultures still recognize the continued importance of the group sharing of food. The components of a meal are usually a core item of animal protein, a staple of plant origin, vegetable trimmings, and a dressing of sauce or gravy, but there are almost infinite variations on this theme. Cannibalism is of course the ultimate taboo. The popular belief seems to be that it was once a widespread practice that has yielded under the press of civilization.
