The evolution of our diet mirrors the evolution of humans themselves. For instance, in the post-industrial era, human diets consisted mainly of whole foods, and after WWII, people became more prone to processed foods and began living a less active lifestyle. So let's discuss how our diet changed over the past 10 decades.

Before the 2000s

From the book “A Square Meal: A Culinary History of the Great Depression” by Andrew Coe and Jane Ziegelman, it can be seen that, in the early 1930s, food was the most significant expenditure. During the great depression, bland flavoured foods were more popular, you can say compulsively.

At that time, scientists discovered vitamins in stages, and cow milk became a “wonder food”. There was no reliable supply of eggs or yeast, so Americans were forced to bake peanut butter bread.

During WWII, people learned about food rationing. In most areas, products like butter, sugar, meat, and cheese were restricted, and people began to consume bread and root vegetables.

In the 1950s, people's lifestyles changed, and they began to include cooked desserts as part of their main meals. People also developed an interest in seasonal fruits.

The 1960s was a transformative era when people began traveling more frequently for holidays. New foods became a stable part of their diets. On the other hand, the popularity of South and East Asian food also started to rise in Britain and other European countries.

A decade down the line marked a reduction in vegetable intake and an increase in red meat consumption. Only one in 10 people consumed fruits regularly. White sliced bread became more famous during this time, with a new plastic wrap.

In the 1980s, women began working, and demand for takeaway food items like hamburgers increased. The fast-food market starts to boom. Milk also changed its packaging from glass bottles to plastic cartons and waxed cardboard. 

In the 1990s, Big supermarkets became common in the food industry, and fast-food outlets increased. In 1980, the average cooking time was 1 hour, which was reduced to 20 minutes in 1999. Sugar-based cereal bars entered the market. To speed up, lifestyle breakfast became casual.  

The 2000s and beyond

In the 2000s, Food trends changed as international cuisines entered mainstream culture. For instance, in 2001, Chicken Tikka Masala became Britain’s national dish. Snacks and Thai food became popular because of supermarkets. On the other hand, consumption of fruits and vegetables declined. 

In the 2010s, Cellphones moulded the eating habits by allowing delivery services and promoting a desk-bound lifestyle. At the same time, plant-based diets also attracted people due to sustainability and climate issues. Clean diet, juices, weight-loss teas, and protein powders gained traction. Superfoods such as avocados became a part of the daily diet. 

COVID-19 accelerated unhealthy eating and sedentary lifestyles. Limited access to the gym and physical activity increased online food ordering. This change, along with weight gain, suggested that the average person gained half a stone. However, post COVID, people have become aware of their health, and a trend in fitness and gyming has started to rise.

Did you know this was the history of our diet?

Written by

Supradeep Dutta

Edited by

Oajaswini Prabhu