but have you ever considered what and how we eat as a from of communication? food serves this purpose in two fundamental ways. In many cultures, people share food at mealtimes. Sharing bread or other foods is common human tradition that can promote unity and trust. Food can also have a specific meaning, and play a prominent role in a family or culture's celebrations. or tradition. the foods we eat - and when and how we eat them - are often unique to a particular culture or may even differ between rural and urban areas within one country.