“Bridging cultures through food”: A qualitative analysis of food dynamic between Italian host families and Ukrainian refugees

Abstract

Owing to the Russo-Ukrainian War, many Ukrainians were forced to migrate, with 175,000 settled in Italy. Following this, several Italian families have offered to host refugees in their homes. The cohabitation of these two cultures has presented challenges and opportunities. In this context, food and culinary practices can represent a means of intercultural exchange. The present study explores the dynamics arising from the coexistence of Italian hosts and Ukrainian refugees, with a focus on food-related interactive exchanges. A qualitative approach was adopted involving semistructured interviews with 24 Italians who hosted Ukrainian refugees in their homes between December 2022 and May 2023. The interviews were analyzed using grounded methodology. The study identified several themes, including differences in eating habits, issues related to the eating habits of refugee children, food as an intercultural exchange, and the opportunities and challenges presented by commensality. In addition, significant challenges emerged regarding the eating habits of refugee children and dietary differences between the Italian host families and the Ukranian refugees. In light of this, it became clear that adopting a flexible and open approach to different eating habits is crucial for facilitating family coexistence and promoting mutual understanding between the Italian host families and the Ukranian refugees. In conclusion to promote harmonious and inclusive intercultural cohabitation, several targeted actions were suggested, such as educational programs, psychosocial support services, and food sharing initiatives.