Food at Its Finest: The Art of Industrial Food Styling

Abstract

When consumers encounter a food advertisement, whether it be on a billboard, a box, or a television commercial, they are often enamored by the palpable image placed before them, recalling the phrase, "you eat with your eyes first". Seldom, though, do they contemplate the time-consuming process required to prepare such items for the camera. Unbeknownst to the hungry customer, behind every image of food lies a stylist working to make the product appear delectable. This essay seeks to provide a historical overview and analysis of the little-known art of food styling that has influenced the minds (and stomachs) of the public since the 1930s. An overview of the industrial food system will be presented, as well as a brief history of food styling. These sections will be followed by an overview and an analysis of various food styling techniques that pertain to the industrial food system. A comparison between the advertised and authentic products will be given, concluding with a discussion on the legal issues surrounding food styling. Through the examination of this perplexing art form, consumers may come to terms with the legitimacy of the processed food they purchase on a daily basis.