FOOD TABOOS IN FISHING POPULATIONS OF SOUTHEASTERN BRAZIL

Abstract

Food taboos are aversions to certain foods that are passed down from generation to generation. This study, conducted through a literature review, analyzed food taboos regarding fish in fishing populations in southeastern Brazil. Using specific keywords, the search was conducted in databases such as Portal CAPES, SciELO and Google Scholar. The results indicate that, in a given state, there are several reasons that lead a community to avoid eating certain fish. Depending on the reasons, different fish species are avoided for consumption. It is concluded that food taboos in fishing populations in southeastern Brazil, influenced by cultural beliefs, play an important role in the conservation of natural resources and local health.

Keywords: Fish; Food taboos; Fishing communities; Southeast Brazil; Food aversions.