Food Connects Us
Contributed by Andrea Coffin, Maine SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educator
The theme for the March 2025 National Nutrition Month annual campaign by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is Food Connects Us. Undoubtedly, food brings people together. Food is a central part of gatherings, celebrations, and holidays. Food links us to culture and family, and is a bridge to the past through shared traditions and recipes handed-down over generations. Food is more than just nutrients and a way to fill our bellies. Food is what nourishes us, physically and emotionally. When used to connect, food can heal our hearts and spirits, build relationships, and strengthen communities.
In 2023, the US Surgeon General, Vivek Murthy published Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation: The U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community. The Advisory addressed the fact that humans are wired for social connection, yet we have become more isolated over time, leading to worse outcomes in both mental and physical health. The Advisory asserts that social connection contributes to overall well-being and healthy communities.
The nutritional content of the food we eat does matter. How we eat, from a social perspective, might be just as important, if not more. Whether it is bringing a meal for a neighbor that lives alone, or having friends over for a low-key dinner, or attending a community supper, using food to connect is health promoting!
In 2024, the US Surgeon General followed up the Advisory on loneliness with a booklet of ideas called Recipes for Connection. The booklet includes various ideas for potlucks, conversation starters, tips for managing anxiety in social settings, etc. all centered around the idea that Food Connects Us. How does food connect you with others? How might you want to connect around food in the future?
Here is one of my favorite excerpts from the booklet:
Childhood Faves Potluck: What was your favorite childhood snack? Maybe it was a crustless PB&J sandwich for lunch, fruit salad, a samosa or gimbap you ate as an after school pick‑me‑up. Host a childhood snack potluck and invite your friends (and their friends!). Ask each guest to bring a cherished snack or dish and a story to share.
Healthy Acadia’s Maine SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educators offer year-round cooking and nutrition classes in partnership with schools and organizations throughout Hancock and Washington counties. To learn more or schedule a class, contact Shannon (shannon.cherry@healthyacadia.org) or Andrea (andrea.coffin@healthyacadia.org) in Washington County, or Amy (amy.russell@healthyacadia.org) or Christine (christine.dentremont@healthyacadia.org) in Hancock County.