Socio-Cultural Factors Behind the Transformation of Food in Northeast India

• Author(s): Nitul Kumar Borah
• Paper ID: 1719263
• Page: 626-628
• Published Date: 31-01-2022
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 5 Issue 7 January-2022

Abstract

North East India possesses one of the richest food cultures in South Asia. The region's dietary traditions have historically been shaped by ecology, ethnicity, indigenous knowledge systems, subsistence agriculture, forest resources, shifting cultivation, and community-based food practices. Traditional foods such as fermented bamboo shoot, soybean products, smoked meat, fish preparations, wild edible plants, millet, rice-based dishes, and locally sourced vegetables have long formed the foundation of everyday life and cultural identity. However, over the last few decades, significant transformations have occurred in food production, preparation, consumption, and distribution across the region. These changes are closely connected to urbanization, globalization, migration, commercialization, changing lifestyles, market expansion, technological development, and shifting socio-cultural values. This paper examines the socio-cultural factors responsible for the transformation of food systems in North East India. Drawing upon the concept of nutrition transition and socio-cultural theories of food, the study argues that food is not merely a biological necessity but also a cultural marker, social institution, and symbol of identity. The paper demonstrates how changing family structures, education, media exposure, consumer culture, migration, and aspirations toward modern lifestyles have altered traditional food habits. While modernization has increased food diversity and market accessibility, it has also contributed to the decline of indigenous food knowledge and growing dependence on processed and commercial foods. The study concludes that preserving traditional food heritage while adapting to contemporary realities is essential for cultural sustainability and public health in North East India.

Keywords

North East India, Food Transformation, Socio-Cultural Change, Nutrition Transition, Indigenous Food Systems.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Nitul Kumar Borah "Socio-Cultural Factors Behind the Transformation of Food in Northeast India" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 5 Issue 7 2022 Page 626-628 https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV5I7-1719263

IEEE:
Nitul Kumar Borah "Socio-Cultural Factors Behind the Transformation of Food in Northeast India" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 5(7) https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV5I7-1719263