Changes in food habits of south Indian Hindu Brahmin immigrants in State College, PA

Ecol Food Nutr. 2009 Sep-Oct;48(5):404-32. doi: 10.1080/03670240903170533.

Abstract

This study was conducted to understand the factors influencing changes in the food habits of south Indian Brahmin immigrants in State College, PA. Data was collected from participants (n = 28) using a semi-structured interview based on the PRECEDE framework, and participant observations. Analysis of the data used grounded theory generated themes highlighting their food acculturation experience. Adjusting in State College was described as a "delicate balance" that meant maintaining their south Indian traditions while at the same time adapting to the cultural milieu of a town that favored north Indian cuisine, and "blending in" with the larger American society.

MeSH terms

  • Acculturation*
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Culture*
  • Diet / ethnology
  • Emigrants and Immigrants*
  • Feeding Behavior / ethnology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • India / ethnology
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pennsylvania
  • Young Adult