The Role of Culinary Education in Promoting Nutritional Awareness: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This systematic review investigates the impact of culinary education on enhancing nutritional awareness among diverse populations. With the rising global concern about diet-related health issues, a growing need exists to explore practical strategies for promoting healthier food choices. This study focuses on qualitative analyses of existing literature to comprehensively examine the role of culinary education in fostering nutritional awareness. The review systematically evaluates various culinary education programs, encompassing both formal and informal settings. Qualitative synthesis techniques are employed to analyze data extracted from relevant studies, including five focus group interviews, and observational reports. The research aims to identify patterns, key themes, and best practices associated with culinary education interventions that contribute to heightened nutritional awareness. By synthesizing qualitative findings, the review seeks to shed light on the nuanced aspects of culinary education that influence individuals’ understanding of nutrition. The synthesis also explores the potential barriers and facilitators that impact the effectiveness of culinary education programs in different cultural and socioeconomic contexts. Ultimately, the research aims to provide evidence-based insights for educators, policymakers, and healthcare professionals to refine and implement culinary education initiatives that effectively promote nutritional awareness and contribute to improved public health outcomes.