GeoCulture Journeys

Brief History of Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea is much more than a quick sip. It’s a meal in the afternoon where people enjoy sandwiches, usually cut in small sections or “fingers,” scones, pastries, and even little cakes. Scones are a recent addition to Afternoon Tea, but they were added to the menu since many people love them.

Once referred to as tea receptions, certain Afternoon Tea events could have as many as two hundred guests with an open invitation for people to visit the home between 4 pm and 7 pm, coming and going as they pleased.

In Britain today, Afternoon Tea is typically enjoyed as an occasional indulgence or to celebrate a special event, including bridal or baby showers, birthdays, or social events with a group of close friends.
Afternoon tea is known throughout the world as one of the quintessential English customs. Surprisingly, it’s a relatively new tradition. While people have been drinking tea since the third millennium BC in China, its popularity in England didn’t occur until the 1660s, thanks to King Charles II and his wife, the Portuguese Infanta Catherine de Braganza. The concept of Afternoon Tea appeared during the mid-19th century.

Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, introduced the concept of Afternoon Tea in 1840. The Duchess got hungry around four o’clock in the afternoon, and the evening’s meal wasn’t until 8 pm. That meant there was a long time between lunch and dinner. Because no one wants to wait that long to eat, the Duchess asked for a tray of tea, bread, butter, and cake during the late afternoon. It became a habit of hers, and she began inviting friends to join her in her room to enjoy this afternoon snack. As finger sandwiches became a popular staple, the Earl of Sandwich’s effect would be felt.

This pause for tea and food became a fashionable social event. During the 1880’s upper-class and society women would wear long gowns, gloves, and hats to Afternoon Tea, which would typically be served in the drawing room between 4 and 5 pm.

7 months ago | [YT] | 0

GeoCulture Journeys

Italy divided over new pineapple pizza

Anyone who’s set foot in Italy knows there are unwritten rules that one must abide by – and the most important of all revolve around food. Cappuccino after 11 a.m.? Only for tourists. Spaghetti bolognese? A horrifying thought. Pineapple on your pizza? Heresy – at least, it was until now.

But 2024 might just be the year that pineapple pizza cracks Italy, thanks to Gino Sorbillo, the renowned Naples pizzaiolo (pizza maestro) who has added the dreaded “ananas” to his menu in Via dei Tribunali, the best known pizza street in the world capital of pizza.

Sorbillo’s creation, called “Margherita con Ananas” costs 7 euros ($7.70). But this isn’t your regular Hawaiian: it is a pizza bianca, denuded of its tomato layer, sprinkled with no fewer than three types of cheese, with the pineapple cooked twice for a caramelized feel.

Sorbillo, a third-generation pizzaiolo, told CNN that he created it to “combat food prejudice.”

“Sadly people follow the crowd and condition themselves according to other people’s views, or what they hear,” he said.

7 months ago | [YT] | 0

GeoCulture Journeys

The Rise of Fast Food Culture
Fast food has become a ubiquitous part of modern life, especially in urban areas where convenience and speed are highly valued. Originating in the United States, the rise of fast food culture has spread worldwide, profoundly impacting health and society.

While fast food offers convenience and affordability, its rise has significant implications for public health, social behaviours, and cultural norms.
Obesity and Related Diseases: One of the most pressing health issues associated with fast food consumption is the rising rate of obesity. Fast food items are typically high in calories, fats, sugars, and salt, contributing to weight gain and related health conditions. Obesity increases the risk of various diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers.

Nutritional Deficiencies: Fast food often lacks essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fibre. A diet heavy in fast food can lead to nutritional deficiencies, weakening the immune system and increasing susceptibility to illness. The overconsumption of processed foods at the expense of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains exacerbates this problem.

Mental Health: Emerging research suggests a link between fast food consumption and mental health issues. Diets high in processed foods and low in nutrients have been associated with increased risks of depression and anxiety. The addictive nature of sugar and unhealthy fats in fast food can also contribute to poor mental health outcomes.
Cultural Shifts: The rise of fast food culture has influenced eating habits and lifestyles worldwide. Traditional meals, which often emphasize fresh, home-cooked food, are increasingly being replaced by fast food. This shift affects family dynamics, as communal meals are replaced by individual fast food consumption.

Environmental Impact: The fast food industry significantly impacts the environment. The mass production of meat, especially beef, contributes to deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and water pollution. Additionally, fast food packaging generates substantial waste, much of which is not recyclable and ends up in landfills.

Economic Factors: Fast food chains often target low-income communities with aggressive marketing strategies, contributing to health disparities. These communities might rely more on fast food due to its affordability and accessibility, further entrenching cycles of poor health and poverty.

Labor Practices: The fast food industry is known for low wages, minimal benefits, and poor working conditions. Many fast food workers struggle with job insecurity and lack access to adequate healthcare, perpetuating economic inequality.
Promoting Healthy Choices: Governments and health organizations can play a pivotal role in promoting healthier eating habits. Policies such as taxing sugary drinks, implementing clear nutritional labeling, and restricting fast food advertising to children can help mitigate the health impacts.

Education and Awareness: Public awareness campaigns can educate people about the health risks of fast food and the benefits of a balanced diet. Schools and communities can implement nutrition education programs to encourage healthier food choices from a young age.

Supporting Sustainable Practices: Encouraging sustainable practices within the fast food industry, such as sourcing ingredients locally and reducing waste, can help minimize environmental damage. Consumers can also be encouraged to support environmentally conscious businesses.

Improving Working Conditions: Advocacy for better wages and working conditions for fast food workers is essential. Policies that ensure fair pay, healthcare benefits, and job security can help address economic disparities linked to the fast food industry.

7 months ago | [YT] | 0