Changes in the American Diet

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I. Introduction A. This paper will consider the adaptations of the United States to a changing diet, from the early to late twentieth century. B. The purpose of this project is to research the evolution in American cuisine throughout the 1900s, towards a more convenience-based pattern of food consumption. The modernization of the United States, particularly in terms of the workforce, will be examined as it relates to a changing diet. Finally, some effects of these changes will be described. II. Background: Early Twentieth Century Cooking III. Modernization of the United States A. Women in the Workforce B. Technological Advances in Food Preparation C. Less Time Spent in the Kitchen IV. Changes in American Diet A. Background: Early Twentieth Century Cuisine B. The Rise of Convenience Foods 1. Prepackaged and frozen foods 2. Fast food industry 3. Eating away from home C. Nutrient Levels, 1900-present D. Increase of Fats and Sugars in the American diet E. Increased Food Consumption V. Discussion A. Qualifications B. Conclusions C. Suggestions for Further Study VII. Works Cited Introduction This paper will explore the culturally adaptive, yet physically maladaptive, changes in American diet from early to late twentieth century. A shift from traditional to convenience foods coincides with the general modernization of the United States, specifically in the role of women in the home and in the workforce. As America changes from a rural nation to one that is urban and industrialized, with rapidly increasing technology, more and more women are seen in the workforce. This increased activity allows less time for preparing meals, and modernization makes spending this time unnecessary. However, increased accessibility of food, and especially convenience food, leaves... ... middle of paper ... ... and dietary adequacy.” Ecology of Food and Nutrition 14 (1984): 105-115. Bindon, JR. “Some implications of the Diet of Children in American Samoa.” Collective Anthropology 1 (1994): 7-15. Bowers DE. “Cooking trends echo changing roles of women.” Food Review 23 (2000): 23-30. Dortch S. “America weighs in.” American Demographics 6 (1997): 38-46. Dyson LK. “American cuisine in the 20th century.“ Food Review 23 (2000):2-9. Goodman P. “Time capsule: dinners and entrees.” Frozen Food Age 51 (2002):37. Goungetas, B, and K Morgan. Snacking and eating away from home. In Peter F, What Is America Eating? Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press, 1986. Krebs-Smith J, SM Krebs-Smith, and H Smiciklas -Wright. Variety in Foods. In Peter F, What Is America Eating? Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press, 1986. Marcus MB, and A Spake. ”A fat nation.” U.S. News and World Report Aug. 2002: 40. Schlosser E. Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal. New York: Perennial 2002. Tillotson JE. “Our ready-prepared ready-to-eat nation.” Nutrition Today 37 (2002): 36-39. U.S. Department of Labor. Employment Status of U.S. Civilians by Age and Sex. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2001

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