rolling waves of flavor
do more than calm
the hungry mouth and soul.
they nourish the cells
who speak to the body
“when you eat
these dripping greens
I am happy.
I am whole.”

such scientific names–
anthocyanin, anthoxanthin
do more than protect
strands of DNA.
they thrill the eyes
light up the mind
who ponders
“I feel like having something
pretty today.”

rising droplets
of succulent scents
do more than carry memories
to the other room.
they sing to my spirit
as they did in the wild
“I am here,
I am plenty,
Eat me,
I am food.”


Stephanie Voytek is a food writer and registered dietitian-nutritionist who is deeply passionate about helping others foster a healthy relationship with food. Her essays and poetry explore a range of topics that impact food culture, encouraging readers to practice compassionate curiosity about both their personal and collective relationships with food.

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