Strata and taste: a look at food in Colombia

It is undeniable that socioeconomic status plays an important role in the diet of Colombians. In the lower strata, access to fresh, nutritious and varied food is often limited, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies and affect people’s physical and intellectual development.

On the other hand, in higher strata, the diet tends to be richer in proteins, fruits and vegetables, which translates into better health and well-being. However, this does not mean that delicious and nutritious culinary options are not available in the lower strata.

In fact, Colombian gastronomy, born of ingenuity and necessity, has known how to make the most of the available ingredients, creating dishes full of flavor and nutritional value.

A mix of cultures

Colombia is a multicultural country with a rich indigenous, African and European heritage. This diversity is reflected in its gastronomy, where each region contributes its own ingredients, culinary techniques and traditions.

On the Caribbean coast, for example, the African influence is evident in the use of spices and seafood. In the Andean region, corn and potato-based dishes stand out, while in the Amazon and Orinoco regions we find a great variety of exotic fruits and fresh fish.

The influence of food on development

Adequate nutrition is essential for the physical and cognitive development of individuals, especially in the stages of childhood growth. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, such as protein, vitamins and minerals, is crucial for good school performance, a strong immune system and optimal overall health.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in the different stages of life. In infancy, an adequate diet is essential for the growth and development of the brain, immune system and bones. Nutrient deficiency at this stage can have irreversible long-term consequences.

During adolescence, nutrition remains important for physical and mental development, as well as for the formation of healthy eating habits that will last into adulthood. At this stage, nutritional needs increase due to accelerated growth and hormonal changes.

In adulthood, a balanced diet helps maintain a healthy weight, prevent chronic diseases and improve quality of life. In old age, adequate nutrition is essential to maintain autonomy and independence, as well as to prevent frailty and age-related diseases.

Food gaps and their impact on development

Despite the importance of food for development, there are significant gaps in access to a healthy diet around the world. These gaps are aggravated by factors such as poverty, inequality and discrimination.

Children living in poverty are more likely to suffer from malnutrition, which can have serious consequences for their physical and cognitive development. In addition, women and girls often have less access to nutritious food than men and boys, making them more vulnerable to anemia and other nutritional deficiencies.

These food gaps not only affect individual health, but also have a negative impact on the social and economic development of countries. Malnutrition reduces labor productivity, increases health care costs, and limits people’s potential to reach their full potential.

What can be done to close food gaps?

To close food gaps and ensure that all people have access to a healthy diet, it is necessary to implement public policies that promote sustainable food production, nutrition education and access to nutritious food at affordable prices.

It is also important to empower communities to make informed decisions about their food and to develop sustainable agricultural practices that enable them to produce their own food.

Promoting healthy and equitable nutrition in Colombia

It is important to work to ensure that all Colombians, regardless of their socioeconomic status, have access to healthy and nutritious food.

This implies knowing the different realities in depth, understanding the figures, the factors that influence access to healthy food, food sources, schedules, etc. in order to develop and implement public policies that encourage the production and consumption of fresh, local and seasonal foods, as well as nutrition education programs that teach people to choose a balanced diet appropriate to their needs.

Food is a fundamental human right and an essential element for individual and social development. Taking advantage of the richness of Colombian gastronomy and investing in healthy food for all is an investment in the future, as it allows us to build more prosperous, just and sustainable societies.