PHILOSOPHY OF FOOD (FOODISM); HEALTH AND SAFETY AMONG NIGERIANS

Abstract

From ab intio, man-like every other species on the planet has intermingled with nature according to one prevailing essential: survival. Therefore, we have more meaningful and complex relationships with food than we can think of. It is becoming clear that our system involves immense problems which cannot be solved unless we change our thinking patterns and some unhealthy approaches to food. We eat to live and not necessarily live to eat, this is why our approach to food (what we eat) should be healthy enough, and so the philosophy of food turns out to be imperative here. Food remains inseparable from man. It is a social good that is fundamental to the institutions of society, principles of justice, and the building of quality citizenship. Supposedly, food is seen in harmony with nature, and natural food is essential for human development. Food can be cultural, showing that it emanates from culture. This goes a long way to show that food preparation and consumption are tied within cultures in terms of belief, and traditional practices in such a way that food can define culture, and culture can as well define food. Nigeria for a case study has many cultures with assorted wonderful cultural foods, and since we eat to live, the attitude towards food remains a topic of discussion for Nigerians. This paper shall try to look at the understanding of food, especially in connection to Nigerians with regards to their attitude to food, health, and safety, and by extension make a presentation of philosophers’ contributions to the subject, food. Food safety is an integral part of food and nutrition security. Hence, the foundation of food safety is built upon a quality-safety culture, compliance with food laws, regulations, policy, traceability, and food safety management systems encompassing documentation.