Food sustains life, but it is much more than something we need to nourish our bodies. Food in its essence is love, life and the heart of society. Food brings people together. They are the shared flavors of friendship and community. We like to be with others enjoying the flavors and textures of food. It is often through these shared experiences that intimacy develops, memories are made, and relationships thrive.

We fondly remember childhood dining experiences, often longing to duplicate those tastes that remind us of home. Food is at the center of our sense of family and relationships. Certain scents transport us back in time to the people and places that matter to us. We remember family picnics and food festivals.

No matter who we are or what culture we come from, every society thinks carefully about the daily preparation of meals for family, friends, or even strangers. Food means love. This is true whether we are the cook or the one eating.

Food is at the heart of society. We learn how to behave in society and interact with others in life based on the kind of eating ritual we experience growing up. We are connected to others near and far through food. We are interdependent due to global trade and commerce. The food on our tables comes from farmers all over the planet.

Food, more than any other element of society, unites us. Our lives are emotionally affected by food production around the world. In some countries, people are starving, while in others, people are suffering from diseases caused by an overabundance of food.

A 13th-century Buddhist leader and philosopher, Nichiren, while in exile, wrote in a letter thanking a follower for sending him food: “Rice is not just rice, it is life itself.” Food is life itself. It is our link between us. Food is love, life and is at the heart of society. Fittingly, the foods that are better for our bodies are also better for our society.