Globalization has undoubtedly transformed many aspects of our lives, including the way we eat. For centuries, people in England relied on locally grown fruits and vegetables, but with the advent of globalization, it became possible to access a wide range of produce from all over the world. In this blog post, we explore how globalization changed the way we eat in England.
Before globalization, fruits and vegetables were largely seasonal and limited to what could be grown in England's climate. People in England enjoyed root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and turnips, along with cabbage, onions, and other vegetables that could be grown in colder weather. Fruit options were also limited, with apples, pears, and berries being the most common.
With the advent of globalization, however, a wider range of fruits and vegetables became available to people in England. Thanks to advancements in transportation and trade agreements, tropical fruits like bananas, mangoes, and pineapples, as well as exotic vegetables like sweet potatoes and yams, became more accessible. Along with this, new cooking techniques and cultural influences from around the world also introduced new ingredients to the English diet, such as tomatoes and peppers from the Americas, and spices from India and Asia.
While this increased access to a wider variety of produce has brought many benefits, it has also led to a shift away from locally grown fruits and vegetables. With the availability of year-round produce from all over the world, it can be easy to forget about the seasons and what's locally grown. This has led to concerns about the environmental impact of transporting produce across the globe and the loss of traditional, regional diets.
Despite these concerns, globalization has opened up a world of culinary possibilities and has allowed for the integration of diverse cultures and cuisines into the English diet. It has also led to increased awareness and appreciation for healthy eating and the benefits of a diverse, plant-based diet.
In conclusion, while globalization has undoubtedly changed the way we eat in England, it has also brought many benefits, such as increased access to a wider range of produce and exposure to new cultures and cuisines. However, it is important to remember the value of locally grown, seasonal produce and to strive for a balance between global access and sustainability.