Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Food culture refers to the customs, traditions, and practices related to food in a particular society or country. It encompasses everything from cooking techniques and ingredients to dining etiquette and food-related celebrations.
中国文化 (zhōng guó wén huà): Chinese culture encompasses various aspects of Chinese society, including language, art, philosophy, customs, and of course, food.
民以食为天 (mín yǐ shí wéi tiān): This Chinese proverb translates to "the people regard food as their heaven." It emphasizes the importance of food in people's lives and highlights the significance of agriculture and sustenance.
美食 (měi shí): This term refers to delicious or gourmet food. It often represents high-quality cuisine that is well-prepared and highly regarded for its taste.