Seafood in the Culture of Nutrition and Alimentary Structure: Case of Kosovo

Abstract (English)

This study is devoted to such a significant socio-cultural phenomenon as food, as well as the role of various factors in the adaptation of innovations in the structure of nutrition nowadays. My field study during 1990–2024 showed that the change in the food paradigm and, most importantly, the individual and collective perception of the value of such a component of the alimentary structure as seafood, among the population of Kosovo, took place over 30 years, after the disintegration of former Yugoslavia at the beginning of the 1990’s. After Kosovo gained independence in 2007, the food system, at least in catering establishments, began to be oriented towards Albania. Due to geographical conditions, Albanians in Kosovo traditionally did not eat seafood, with the rare exception of fish, which was caught mainly in local rivers and lakes. Even during the Yugoslav years, fish, mainly trout, began to be farmed artificially in the region. Nowadays, the consumption of fish and seafood is associated with prestigious consumption. Fish and seafood have become popular in Albania, in particular, among the population of coastal zones, which are greatly influenced by the development of local and international tourism (with its stereotypes and values). Due to this factor, the Albanians of Kosovo are trying to harmonize their catering system with the food system of the single-ethnic neighboring state. The Serbs of Kosovo in this situation are more likely to preserve the traditional food system, leaving meat as the main component of any festive feast - whether at home or in a restaurant or cafe. This fact indicates that seafood has become an ethno-differentiating marker in the food system in post-conflict conditions. Promotion of “bio” food and a healthy lifestyle have led to significant transformations in relation to nutrition and its components among all social and regional groups of Albanians.