Course Description

Food, Society and Culture in Britain *NEW* STUDY TOUR

Bangers and mash?  Bubble and squeak? What is British cuisine and how has it changed from wartime to the present?  Have negative stereotypes of British cuisine been replaced by a new food culture of focused on celebrity chefs, ethical choices and a new-found ‘best of British’ pride?  Or, do fast-rising rates of obesity, childhood diabetes and dependency on supermarkets and ready meals tell a different story? 

Using a multi-disciplinary approach, this course examines the critical issues in food today and the interconnectedness of food, culture and society in modern Britain.  The rich and multicultural heritage of London provides a multitude of opportunities to explore the issues herein and use our senses to taste, smell and see the food cultures of this dynamic city.

Possible Co-curricular activities

  • Regional food tasting
  • Imperial War Museum - Ministry of Food Exhibit
  • Guided and self-guided tours of london outdoor markets, food halls and supermarkets
  • Indian cuisine tour and tasting

*Please note: a lab fee will be required for this course beginning in Spring of 2012.

*NEW* Three-Day Optional Study Tour to Madrid

The cosmopolitan city of Madrid is bursting with the sights and sounds of vibrant Spanish culture. Most importantly, it is a city of culinary delights from all over the country.  From Spring 2012, an optional study tour will be offered for London students enrolled in Food, Society and Culture in Great Britain. Owing to the contrast in food culture and behaviours that Spain offers, this study tour allows students to embark on an experience that reflects a particular passionate relationship that the Spanish have with ingredients, cooking and meals. Set to take place during Madrid’s Gastrofestival, the study tour provides an opportunity to explore Spain’s flavours.

The tour includes cheese, wine and olive oil tastings, an exploration of tapas-style eating, a market tour, and visits and lectures to uncover the connections between art and food and food and health. The study tour takes place at the end of January, during Phase I. The tour is scheduled for 3 days and will be offered as an added extra at a cost of around 50 GBP, to include accommodation, flights, tours, tastings, visits and lectures and some meals.