Food
(1) Are you fussy or particular about the food you eat?
"I would say I have certain preferences rather than being overly fussy.
While I enjoy a wide variety of cuisines, I do pay attention to the freshness
and quality of ingredients. For instance, I prefer my vegetables to be crisp
and my meat to be well-cooked. It's more about enjoying a well-prepared
and tasty meal than rejecting a lot of different foods."
(2) Have your favourite kinds of food changed over the years?
"Definitely. When I was younger, I had a sweet tooth and gravitated towards
sugary snacks and desserts. However, as I've grown older, my palate has
become more refined. I now appreciate more complex flavors and enjoy
savory dishes, especially those with fresh herbs and spices. I've also
become more interested in trying different cuisines and experimenting with
new tastes."
(3) Do you like fast food and slow food?
"I think both have their place. Fast food can be convenient when I'm short
on time, and sometimes I crave a simple burger or fries. However, I truly
appreciate slow food for its emphasis on quality ingredients and careful
preparation. Slow-cooked meals often have a depth of flavor that you don't
find in fast food, and the experience of savoring a well-made dish is very
enjoyable."
(4) What do you think about food additives?
"I have mixed feelings about food additives. On one hand, I understand that
some additives are used for preservation or to enhance flavor, which can
make food more accessible and appealing. However, I am also aware of
the potential health concerns associated with certain artificial additives.
Therefore, I generally prefer foods with minimal additives and try to choose
fresh, whole ingredients whenever possible."
(5) Do you care where the food you eat comes from?
"Yes, I do care about the origin of my food. Knowing where it comes from
can tell you a lot about its quality and how it was produced. I try to support
local farmers and businesses when possible, as this often means fresher
produce and contributes to the local economy. I'm also interested in ethical
sourcing and sustainable farming practices."
(6) What national dishes from your country would you recommend to
the world?
"Since I am currently located in Alexandria, Egypt, I would definitely
recommend trying Koshari. It's a unique and delicious vegetarian dish
made with rice, macaroni, lentils, and chickpeas, topped with a spicy
tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. Another must-try is Ful Medames, a
flavorful stew of fava beans seasoned with herbs, spices, and olive oil,
often served with bread. For something sweet, Basbousa, a semolina cake
soaked in sweet syrup, is a delightful choice."
(7) Do you worry about the rising cost of food?
"Yes, I do worry about the rising cost of food. It's becoming increasingly
challenging for many people to afford nutritious meals, and this trend
seems to be continuing. It affects not only individual households but also
the broader economy. I hope that sustainable solutions can be found to
ensure that healthy food remains accessible to everyone."
(8) Do you think the world’s food will ever run out?
"It's a complex issue, but I don't necessarily think the world's food will
completely run out. However, I do believe that food security is a significant
concern. Factors like climate change, population growth, and resource
depletion put a strain on food production. It's crucial for us to adopt more
sustainable agricultural practices and address issues of food distribution to
ensure that everyone has access to enough food in the future."
(9) What do you think of genetically-modified (GM) food?
"I have a cautious perspective on genetically-modified (GM) food. While
proponents argue that it can increase crop yields and enhance nutritional
value, there are also concerns about potential long-term health and
environmental impacts. I think more research and transparent labeling are
necessary to help consumers make informed decisions about GM foods."
(10) Is your food bill big?
"Compared to other expenses, my food bill is a significant portion of my
monthly budget. I prioritize eating healthy and fresh food, which can
sometimes be more expensive. While I try to be mindful of my spending
and look for deals, I believe that investing in good quality food is important
for my well-being."
