Breaking Bread: Building Community and Resiliency through Sourdough Bread

Abstract

Throughout history, bread has been a representation of food (in)security. From being a symbol of wealth to being the staple of the poor, bread has served as the centerpiece of meals all around the world. Breaking bread is an act of community that captivates culture and tradition. By documenting the narratives of sourdough bakers, we want to reconnect people with the bakers as sourdough bread provides a narrative that goes beyond a meal. Through interviews, in-person observations, and bench work, this research highlights the complexities of our food system and challenges the views of locality and sustainability. Taking on the idea of farm-to-table, we follow the journey of grain to bread. With a staple like bread, the stories told shape cultures and narratives. These narratives highlight the importance of shopping locally and preserving the rich history around food. As a vessel for learning, food education connects people back to the environment and it also symbolizes the community bakers bring together through bread.