10 February 2025

Have you ever told a story from your past, only to have someone else remember it completely differently? I just started reading John Mackey's book, The Whole Story. He opens with a sort of disclaimer, that it's only his whole story, because "every narrative is shaped by the perspective from which it is told."

This concept extends far beyond storytelling; it influences how we view the world, including how we think about food, health, and sustainability. This is one reason I try to cultivate an environment of tolerance, respect and curiosity in my classes.

The Subjectivity of Food Choices

Just as no two people recall a shared event the same way, no two people experience food in exactly the same way. Our upbringing, culture, and personal experiences shape our perceptions of what is “healthy,” “normal,” or “delicious.” If you were raised in a household where vegetables were an afterthought, you might approach a plant-based diet with skepticism. If your grandmother’s kitchen was always filled with the aroma of simmering lentils, veggie-centric eating might feel like home.

Our perspectives on food are also influenced by social circles, media (more than we know!), and personal health experiences. Someone who has felt the benefits of eating more plants - better digestion, more energy, lower cholesterol - may see plant-based eating as a clear path to well-being. Others with less experience may perceive it as restrictive or extreme. These differences in perception aren’t about right or wrong; they’re about personal stories and frames of reference.

Seeing Beyond Our Own Perspective

When we recognize that our food choices are shaped by personal experience, we can approach plant-based eating with curiosity rather than judgment. Instead of thinking, “I could never give up cheese,” we might ask, “What experience does cheese offer me and where else could I find that?” Instead of assuming plant-based meals lack flavor, we might explore spices and global cuisines that showcase plants in vibrant ways.

This shift in perspective isn’t just about individual preference - it’s about broadening our view of food’s role in our lives. Food is more than fuel; it carries culture, ethics, tradition, and environmental impact. When we look at eating from another’s perspective - perhaps someone who grew up with food insecurity, someone managing a chronic illness, or someone passionate about animal welfare - we begin to see that our perception may not be the whole story.

Writing Our Own Plant-Based Story

If we accept that our perspective on food is shaped by experience, then we also have the power to reshape it. Small changes - Green Bites™, if you will - can make a difference. Being open to new ingredients and ideas can help us appreciate plant-based options in ways we may not have expected. Your story is created by you. I'm just here to smooth the journey - sort of like an editor, just not with a red pen (restricting), but rather a green one (expanding)!