Proposal for a conceptual framework for gastronomy literacy

An exploratory scoping review

Abstract

This article focuses on the conceptualization of “gastronomy literacy” explicitly distinguishing it from “food literacy”, which includes culinary skills (“culinary literacy”), knowledge about food and nutrients, as well as an analysis of the influence of attitudes and motivations on food choices and ecological awareness regarding the environmental impact of food production.

The concept of “gastronomy literacy” aims to broaden the perspective and understand the immense complexity of the human relationship and interaction with food. To develop a conceptual framework encompassing the cultural and identity interrelations inherent in the gastronomic approach to food, an exploratory descriptive study was conducted, based on a narrative scoping review complemented by additional studies. These studies delve into the specific characteristics of gastronomy from a learning perspective, placing the locus of control on the learner, whether a nutrition professional or an individual seeking to improve their health status through food.

Ultimately, the article adopts a multidisciplinary approach to capture the richness and complexity of the phenomenon, aiming to provide a solid foundation for future research.