cooking is through the sense of smell. The olfactory bulb, which is responsible for smell, is linked to the areas of the brain associated with memory and emotion 3 . For example, the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie may trigger the thought of mom’s homemade pie cooling on the counter of the family home. Using familiar, comforting foods and creating pleasant aromas in the dining areas can help bring positive feelings to the surface while potentially encouraging adequate intake. Past Meets Present Understanding yesterday's and today's trends is vital when developing your menu to support the needs and tastes of your residents. The drastic development of the food industry, combined with globalization, has allowed cuisines from across the globe to be available right here in Canada 3 . In the past, the availability of products was often limited by regional growing seasons, while local traditions and cuisine dominated what was served at the dinner table. Today, however, we have access to a vast range of ingredients with endless potential to create new flavour profiles. For example, we might try a potato salad made with Greek yogurt dressing or a curried pulled pork sandwich. Experimenting with new ingredients can elevate classic dishes and meet the demands for increased diversity on the menu, harmonizing the past and present. Food is not only about the flavour but also about how it is prepared and where it is consumed. Home-cooked meals were a fundamental part of family life after World War II, and so preparing meals from scratch or semi-scratch is one strategy to rekindle those memories related to family and belonging. It is also essential to consider residents' ever- changing dietary needs and preferences and adapt recipes accordingly. For example, a homemade gluten-free lasagna allows those who do not consume gluten to enjoy home- cooked comfort foods. Accommodating
Memories Food can be used as a powerful way to stimulate positive memories and emotions to encourage adequate food intake while also improving resident satisfaction and quality of life. To achieve this, it is necessary to look into the past to build today’s menu better. A Look into the Past Homestyle Cooking Comforts the Soul CONTRIBUTED BY SYSCO CANADA NUTRITION SERVICES TEAM
Through Meals
resident needs has a powerful impact on promoting inclusiveness and community. Additionally, an ambiance of togetherness can be enhanced with décor reminiscent of the past, such as red checkered tablecloths or vintage centrepieces in dining areas. Carefully considering these aspects of dining can help enrich the overall mealtime experience. Making Mealtimes Memorable When it comes to what is on the plate, acknowledging the significance of the past is an important step to assist residents in enjoying the present and embracing the future. Recognizing recipes' and ingredients' emotional and memorable impact when building a menu can further connect people to their food. So how do we serve the fond memories of the past at mealtime today? By bringing people together to celebrate special events with themed menus, such as Halloween and Remembrance Day, or throwing a 50s Party with classic mealtime favourites. We can add nostalgia flair with music from past eras like Glenn Miller and Elvis Presley. Mealtime is much more than just when our residents eat; it is a perfect opportunity to foster the feeling of home!
Despite these emerging changes to mealtime, rationing was still in effect and eating out remained a luxury after World War II. Home-cooked meals were the foundation of a household and served as a vital source of nutrition, comfort and a sense of belonging.
How food was prepared and consumed in the home rapidly changed during and after World War II. The impact of soldiers returning home and industrial development led to more activities surrounding food becoming more popular, such as barbecuing, enjoying meals outside, and entertaining guests. At the same time, mealtime was highly valued in the home. Eating at the table was cherished family time where people would enjoy a version of the following classic dinner combination:
Certain foods can sometimes be referred to as “comfort foods” if they are related to a positive memory or feeling, for example, the feeling of being cared for. One study showed that people who associated happy family memories with specific foods were likelier to crave these items when feeling down 1 . Not only do these foods provide emotional comfort, but the associated positive feelings may also even render the food more satisfying 2 . Another way to evoke memories of home
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Dinner!
Protein
Strachy Vegetable
Cooked Green Vegetable
Green Salad
Fruit
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