Algorithmic Appetite

The Algorithmic Appetite: How TikTok, Uber Eats, and Meal Kits Are Rewiring Our Taste Buds In what ways are social media and the pressures of modern life dictating our conversations about nutrition and controlling our daily existence? The Algorithmic Appetite explores the intersection of technology and culinary culture, revealing how digital platforms shape our food choices and experiences. The book begins by examining the phenomenon of visually driven recipes that thrive on social media, highlighting how aesthetics often overshadow taste in contemporary cooking. It delves into the rise of performance cooking, where chefs leverage algorithms to gain visibility and authority, creating an "algorithmic menu" that dictates what we eat based on trending content rather than traditional culinary values. In subsequent sections, the narrative shifts to the concept of ghost kitchens—virtual dining establishments that operate without a physical storefront. This exploration uncovers the illusion of choice presented to consumers while exposing the hidden labor dynamics within this emerging industry. The discussion extends to meal kits and instant grocery services, analyzing their psychological appeal and implications for consumer behavior amid a fragile supply chain. As it progresses, the book addresses how data influences flavor preferences and regional cuisines, positing that algorithmic recommendations can homogenize tastes across diverse populations. Case studies illustrate these trends through specific examples like viral dishes that capture public interest yet may lack authenticity. However, not all is lost in this technological landscape. The final chapters advocate for a return to analog cooking practices and local sourcing as a counter-movement against algorithm-driven consumption. They call for conscious eating habits that prioritize community engagement over mere content consumption while envisioning a future where technology serves humanity rather than dominates it.