How do food rituals and dining etiquette vary across cultures, and what do these practices reveal about social norms and values?

Food rituals and dining etiquette vary widely across cultures and reveal important aspects of social norms and values. For example, in many Asian cultures, communal dining and shared dishes emphasize the importance of family and togetherness, while Western cultures often prioritize individual portions and formal dining settings. In Ethiopia, the traditional use of injera (a type of flatbread) as both a plate and utensil highlights the communal and hands-on approach to eating. Dining etiquette, such as the use of chopsticks in East Asia or the fork and knife in Western countries, reflects cultural attitudes towards formality, respect, and social hierarchy. These practices reveal cultural values such as hospitality, respect for tradition, and social cohesion, offering insights into how different societies approach and value the act of sharing a meal.