Abstract

The objective is to describe leaves and other plant products obtained from the environment for utilitarian purposes in traditional Costa Rican cuisine. The study is qualitative and is based on semi-structured interviews with 37 people between the ages of 50 and 91, residing in different parts of the country. 59 products widely used more than six decades ago for the storage, conservation, preparation, consumption and transportation of food, as well as for cleaning, disinfection and pest control, were identified. Aspects such as access, functionality, durability, aesthetics and efficiency in different household tasks are considered for their selection. There is a decrease in current application due to changes in lifestyles, urbanization, industrialization and greater use of synthetic materials which, according to the people interviewed, has caused the loss of knowledge in new generations regarding the resources and their familiarization with utilization in the domestic environment. The natural products have value for their practical use in the kitchen, as well as for being biodegradable and favoring the family economy, which is why they have persisted over time, and it is still possible to acquire some of them in their natural state or with artisanal manufacture in markets and local fairs.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.