Let’s Talk About Food and Cuisine

Speaking about food is like speaking about culture, about memories and emotions, about family and traditions. Speaking about food is a way to understand people better.

Speaking About Food: Interview-style questions

• What’s your favorite type of cuisine?
• How often do you cook at home?
• Do you prefer eating out or having home-cooked meals?
• What’s a traditional dish from your country?
• Have you ever tried any unusual or exotic foods?
• How has your diet changed over the years?
• Do you enjoy trying new recipes?
• What’s your go-to comfort food when you’re feeling down? (= What do you like to eat when you’re in a bad mood?)

Describe a memorable meal you’ve had. You should say:

• what the occasion was
• where you ate
• who you were with
• why it was memorable

Speaking About Food: Discussion

How do you think eating habits have changed in your country over the past few decades?

Eating habits have changed a lot in my country. In the past, people mostly cooked at home and used fresh, local ingredients. Today, many people have busy lifestyles, so they eat out more often or choose convenience foods like frozen meals and fast food. However, there is also a growing interest in healthy eating and organic products, especially among young people.

What role does food play in cultural identity?

Food is a very important part of cultural identity because it reflects a nation’s history, traditions, and values. Traditional dishes often remind people of their childhood and family gatherings. Sharing food also helps people feel connected to their culture and keeps traditions alive across generations.

Do you think traditional cuisines are at risk of disappearing? Why or why not?

Yes, I think traditional cuisines are partly at risk. Globalization and the popularity of international fast food have made many people, especially the younger generation, less interested in traditional recipes. Still, many chefs and families are trying to preserve these dishes by teaching cooking classes, organizing food festivals, and promoting local ingredients.

How might technology impact the way we prepare and consume food in the future?

Technology will probably make cooking easier and more personalized. Smart kitchen devices can already suggest recipes based on what ingredients we have at home. In the future, we might see more lab-grown meat, 3D-printed meals, and apps that help people track nutrition. However, this could also reduce the social aspect of cooking and eating together.

What are some ethical considerations when it comes to food production and consumption?

There are several ethical issues, such as animal welfare, fair pay for farmers, and environmental impact. Many food production methods harm the planet through pollution and waste. Consumers are becoming more aware of these problems and are trying to buy local, seasonal, and cruelty-free products to make more responsible choices.

How can governments promote healthier eating habits among their citizens?

Governments can encourage healthy eating by improving education about nutrition in schools, regulating advertising for unhealthy foods, and supporting local food producers. They can also make healthy food more affordable and accessible, for example, by reducing taxes on fruits and vegetables.

In what ways does globalization affect local food cultures?

Globalization has both positive and negative effects. On one hand, it allows people to experience foods from other countries, which increases cultural exchange. On the other hand, it can lead to the loss of traditional dishes and local ingredients, as global fast-food chains and imported products become more popular. Balancing both is the key to keeping food culture diverse.

Describe what you think is a healthy diet.

A healthy diet, in my opinion, is one that gives your body all the nutrients it needs to work properly while keeping a good balance between different types of food. It should include a lot of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins like fish or chicken, and healthy fats such as olive oil or nuts.

It’s also important to drink enough water and avoid eating too much sugar, salt, and processed food. I think moderation is the key — it’s fine to enjoy sweets or fast food sometimes, but not every day.

Finally, a healthy diet isn’t only about what you eat, but also how you eat. Taking time to enjoy meals, eating with others, and listening to your body’s hunger signals are all part of a balanced lifestyle.

In your opinion, what role does the media have in shaping our diets?

In my opinion, the media plays a huge role in shaping our diets. Through advertisements, TV shows, and social media, we are constantly influenced by what we see. For example, fast food commercials often make unhealthy meals look attractive and convenient, which can encourage people to eat more of them.

At the same time, the media can have a positive influence. Many influencers and nutrition experts share healthy recipes and promote balanced lifestyles online. Documentaries and campaigns about nutrition and sustainability also help people become more aware of what they eat.

Overall, I think the media has the power to both harm and help our eating habits — it depends on how responsibly it is used and how critically people consume the information they see.

Should advertisements for unhealthy food be banned? Why or why not?

Yes, I think the advertisements that promote unhealthy food should be banned to protect public health, mainly for kids who are easily influenced by it. Banning these ads completely can help reduce the consumption of junk food and encourage healthier eating habits.

Why do you think some people choose to be vegetarians?

I think people choose to be vegetarians for different reasons. Some do it for health, because they believe a plant-based diet is better for the body. Others make this choice for ethical reasons, as they don’t want animals to suffer. There are also environmental reasons, since meat production uses a lot of land and water and causes pollution.

In general, being vegetarian is often a mix of caring about health, animals, and the planet.

How do you think the way we eat will change in the future?

I think the way we eat will change a lot in the future because of technology and lifestyle changes. More people might use smart kitchens or apps that suggest meals based on what they have at home. We could also see more lab-grown meat and plant-based alternatives, which are better for the environment.

At the same time, I hope people will still value home-cooked meals and eating together, because food is not just about nutrition — it’s also about culture and social life.

Is American-style ‘fast food’ popular in your country? 

Yes, American-style fast food is quite popular in my country, especially among young people. Chains like McDonald’s, KFC, and Burger King are very common, and many people eat there because it is quick, convenient, and familiar.

However, some people try to avoid it because it is unhealthy and doesn’t use fresh ingredients. At the same time, there is a growing interest in local food and healthier alternatives, so not everyone relies on fast food.

More and more people are becoming overweight nowadays. What do you think might be the causes of this?

I think there are several reasons why more people are becoming overweight nowadays. One main cause is unhealthy eating habits, like eating too much fast food, sugary snacks, and processed meals. Another reason is lack of physical activity, because many people have sedentary jobs and spend a lot of time on computers or phones.

Stress and busy lifestyles also play a role, as people sometimes eat more for comfort or convenience. Overall, it’s usually a combination of poor diet, little exercise, and modern lifestyle habits.

In what ways does packaged food benefit society?

Packaged food benefits society in several ways. First, it is convenient and saves time, which is helpful for busy people or families. Second, it has a longer shelf life, so it reduces food waste and makes it easier to store and transport. Third, packaged food often comes with nutritional information, which helps people make informed choices about what they eat.

Finally, it supports the economy by creating jobs in manufacturing, distribution, and retail. Overall, packaged food makes modern life more convenient and organized, even though it’s important to choose healthier options when possible.

Do you think there is a danger that your country’s traditional cuisine could disappear?

Yes, I think there is some danger that my country’s traditional cuisine could disappear, especially among younger generations. Many people are influenced by global fast food and international dishes, which can make traditional recipes less popular.

However, I believe it’s still possible to preserve these dishes if families continue to teach cooking at home, and if restaurants and cultural events promote local food and traditional ingredients. It’s really about keeping the balance between modern trends and cultural heritage.

Do you think that people’s attitude to chemicals in food is changing?

Yes, I think people’s attitude to chemicals in food is changing. Nowadays, many people are more aware of artificial additives, preservatives, and pesticides. They try to buy organic or natural products and read labels carefully before choosing what to eat.

This change is partly because of media reports and documentaries about food safety, and also because people are more interested in healthy lifestyles. Overall, I think there is a growing demand for cleaner and safer food.

Speaking About Food: Vocabulary to Use 

Nutrients are substances that provide the essential nourishment for growth and the maintenance of life.
Vegetables are rich in nutrients such as vitamins and minerals.

Influence is the capacity to affect the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.
The media can influence people’s food choices through advertisements.

Optimal means best or most favorable.
Eating a balanced diet helps ensure the body functions at an optimal level.

Vegetarianism is the practice of not eating meat for health, religious, or ethical reasons.
Vegetarianism is becoming more popular as people become more health-conscious.

Environmental resources are natural materials and components such as air, water, and minerals used by humans.
Some people choose vegetarianism to reduce their use of environmental resources.

Hygiene means conditions and practices conducive to maintaining health and preventing disease, especially through cleanliness.
Good food hygiene is essential to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Globalization is the process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale.
Globalization has led to the widespread availability of fast food in many countries.

Obesity is the condition of being grossly fat or overweight.
A diet high in fast food can lead to obesity and related health problems.

Hypertension is abnormally high blood pressure.
Hypertension can result from poor dietary choices and lack of exercise.