Food is any substance, usually comprised primarily of carbohydrates, fats, water and/or proteins, that can be eaten or drunk by animals (including humans) for nutrition and/or pleasure.
 
Most cultures have a recognizable cuisine: a specific set of cooking traditions, preferences, and practices, the study of which is known as gastronomy. The study of food is called food science. In English, the term food is often used metaphorically or figuratively, as in food for thought.
 
Food is traditionally made through farming, ranching and is locally important. More recently, there has been a growing trend towards more Sustainable agricultural practices. This approach - which is partly fuelled by consumer demand - encourages biodiversity, local self-reliance and Organic farming methods.
 
Food for livestock is fodder and traditionally comprises hay.