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What is Comfort Food: Understand the Meaning of this Trend
Comfort foods are those that bring a sense of well-being and are often tied to nostalgic memories and emotional comfort. Over time, the idea of comfort food has changed, mirroring broader social shifts and individual emotional needs. Back in the '70s and '80s, these types of meals became increasingly popular in the U.S., initially seen as part of Midwestern middle-class cuisine. As the years went on, these dishes found their way onto even high-end restaurant menus, evolving into a shared cultural experience through cookbooks and specialty eateries.
Psychologically, comfort foods are closely connected to emotional health. Research from the University of Buffalo shows that simply thinking about comfort foods can alleviate feelings of loneliness because they remind us of cherished moments spent with loved ones. For those with strong social bonds, these foods can act as substitutes for real-life connections, offering solace during stressful times.
Social crises like post-9/11, the 2008 financial meltdown, and the ongoing pandemic have driven many to seek refuge in familiar comfort foods. But what exactly makes these foods so appealing in terms of their composition?
Consider vegetable fats, a key element in numerous comfort foods. These fats contribute significantly to both texture and the sensation of fullness, which is vital for these kinds of meals. Additionally, fats enhance flavor and mouthfeel, creating a richer, more gratifying experience.
Take BRF Ingredients’ Vegetable Fats, for instance. Made from blends of vegetable fats and oils like cottonseed, soybean, palm, and palm kernel oils, they aid in maintaining the desired texture while extending shelf life. Thanks to their adaptability, these fats can be utilized not just in frying but also in baking and making ice cream.
Next up are breading flours, commonly used to give fried foods like chicken and fish a satisfyingly crispy coating. This crunchiness adds an extra layer of enjoyment and indulgence typical of comfort foods.
BRF Ingredients provides Breading Flours processed via an extrusion method using natural components such as wheat and corn. Available in various shades and granularities, BRFi Flours deliver the right level of crispiness and texture needed for specific applications.
Natural flavors are equally important in crafting comfort foods. They amplify tastes and forge an emotional bond between the consumer and the dish, recalling home-cooked meals through sensory cues.
BRFi’s Food Ingredients collection features Natsense natural meat flavors, which function as either preservatives or flavor boosters. Generated through slow cooking with fresh raw materials sourced entirely from BRF’s integrated animal supply chain, these flavors can enhance the taste of savory or sweet dishes alike.
In conclusion, the comfort food phenomenon remains strong as it satisfies both physical hunger and emotional cravings. To craft items that resonate with the public, it’s critical to leverage ingredients that refine the texture, flavor, and aroma of the final product. Herein lies the value of BRFi’s extensive Food Ingredients lineup, encompassing vegetable fats, breading flours, and natural flavors. Strategically integrating these elements can yield offerings that delight the senses and foster brand loyalty among consumers yearning for exceptional culinary experiences.
References:
"A Brief History of Comfort Food." JSTOR Daily.
"Just Thinking of Comfort Foods Can Reduce Loneliness." Greater Good Science Center, University of California, Berkeley.
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