For as obsessed Americans are with food, cooking is a skill that only a dedicated portion of the population actively learn. That isn’t to say that interest in the field waned; cooking shows have done wonders to increase interest in trying new recipes. Even social media has sparked an interest in cooking among younger generations, with foods within their comfort zone and even those from unknown cultures. However, the best way to get people interested in anything is always in person, and cooking classes were always a great way to accomplish that. Unfortunately, it seems that these classes are all but extinct in the modern day.
It is a peculiar thing, at a time when interest in cooking seems to be at an all-time high. Cooking shows and competitions have remained one of the most popular Non-serial television programs in recent years. Additionally, many influencers and content creators on platforms like TikTok and YouTube have developed well-established careers in food. Some of the most popular ones have raked in millions of followers and views on their respective videos.
Cooking classes, especially those implemented within grade schools, can provide people with an opportunity to gain hands-on experience and help them recognize that cooking is an essential skill to understand, regardless of one’s background. Implementing cooking classes in schools permanently would be a great way to achieve this.
It is one of the many life skills that are often overlooked, whether it be because women are culturally relegated to the role of cooking or due to the ease of access to delivery apps. Learning how to cook allows a person to be more independent and not have to rely on overpriced delivery or reheated meals. Additionally, knowing where food comes from and how it is prepared can help people find a new appreciation for the food that they eat and improve their health by practicing food safety.
