Where Did Cooking Go?

Home Ec

Home economics—now family and consumer science (FCS)—used to be widely available in high schools across the U.S. Now? Not so much. A 2012 national survey showed enrollment in FCS classes had decreased by 38% over the past decade (Werhan). Since then, it’s likely enrollment has continued to decrease, as less schools offer FCS courses. While the skills taught in these classes may seem either outdated or obvious, most classes today teach about nutrition, the purpose of ingredients in a recipe, and even personal finances. More importantly, the goal is not to make students chefs, it’s to build confidence experimenting in the kitchen, and knowing what missteps in the kitchen are inedible vs. safe to eat (Danovich).

Delivery

A 2022 survey conducted by Wakefield Research found that 70% of (surveyed) college students order food from delivery platforms (like DoorDash, UberEats, and Postmates) per week, and that students ordered from these platforms an average of 4 times per week (WBG Staff). The convenience of third-party delivery services is understandable, many college students don’t have cars to go to the grocery store or don’t know how to cook (especially on a budget) if they do have access to a grocery store. The delivery fees and raised prices on these apps take advantage of today’s students and their lack of comfort in the kitchen. While cooking takes time—which students may not have—the alternative options on delivery apps are mostly fast food restaurants, not healthy meals.

Cultural & Social Importance

Food and cooking practices are still huge components of many cultures around the world. Learning a technique used by a different culture or using ingredients you wouldn’t normally use can give a lot of insight into other cultures’ lifestyles. In this way, food can serve as a mode of communication, helping to explain traditions and stories and norms.

Thesis

Knowing how to cook and learning unfamiliar recipes and techniques effectively builds understanding of other cultures, historical events, and embrace our own identities to become more accepting and understanding of different cultures and traditions. This would aid in decreasing prejudice and apathy towards people from different backgrounds or those with different customs.