Intelligence Squared Stuffed: Pen Vogler on Britain's Food History
Dec 17, 2023
Pen Vogler, an acclaimed food historian known for her insightful works on British culinary history, joins Alice Thomson, a columnist from The Times. They explore how Britain's food culture evolved alongside societal changes, from communal meals in the Anglo-Saxon period to today’s market-driven practices. Vogler highlights staples like bread and beer as reflections of class and food scarcity. They discuss the historical disconnect in food production, the influence of industrialization on health, and the British love affair with tea.
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A Spectrum of Food Experiences
- Britain's food system presents a spectrum of experiences, from pleasant satiety to utter lack of options.
- Pen Vogler's book "Stuffed" explores this range, focusing on how historical events and social structures have shaped British foodways, examining who bears responsibility for ensuring everyone is fed during times of crisis.
Community Food Responsibility
- Pre-enclosure Britain had a sense of community responsibility for food, where its source was local and visible.
- This system wasn't perfect, but contrasted with later periods where food was often sent elsewhere for higher profits, leading to riots.
Pre-Industrial Food and Health
- Pre-industrial food had its own health challenges, with malnutrition and dental issues prevalent.
- While whole foods were common, access to varied, nutritious diets depended largely on socioeconomic status.
