On many occasions the presence or abstinence of food nurtures the soul, creates bonds among people, and enriches life. This report explores consumers’ emotional and spiritual use of food. This is a consumer-based report, built from consumer data from several custom studies conducted by Mintel.

This report goes beyond the use of food in personal celebrations and national holidays. Instead, it focuses on the use of food as part of life events and religious occasions. As an example, this analysis addresses life events such as births, deaths and divorces, during which food is shared as a tool to communicate a range of emotions from congratulations to sympathy.

The bulk of this report focuses on the religious-based consumption and avoidance of certain foods. Sacred food traditions are inherent in almost all world religions, with some having more strictly codified food systems than others. While Judaism and Islam have regimented dietary and food regulations, other religions are less stringent in their relationship with food, requiring special meals or foods only at specific times during the year or as a part of specific rituals or holidays.

Through this report, Mintel gauges the influence of religion and spiritual beliefs on eating habits, and suggests opportunities for retailers and manufacturers to tailor products to religious occasions or needs. Specifically addressed are the traditions of Kosher and Halal. These eating practices are shifting to incorporate some key food trends such as organic and convenience. However, they remain true to their history and religious philosophies. Also, this report mentions the growing interest in “eco-religious” foods, those produced with ethical, sustainable ingredients in a manner thoughtful of the world’s ecology and the rights of the world’s workers. Given the fact that the American population is becoming more religiously diverse, an understanding of sacred foods and food traditions is a must for both food makers and marketers.