Cooking Shows: From Humble Beginnings to Global Phenomenon

The world of cooking shows has come a long way since the first-ever cooking program hit British television screens in 1937. What started as a niche interest for a privileged few has blossomed into a global phenomenon, captivating millions of viewers across various platforms. As the industry has evolved, so too have the narratives and perspectives presented, with a growing emphasis on plant-based cuisine and its potential health benefits.

Revolutionizing the Way We Consume and Appreciate Food

The Humble Beginnings of Cooking Shows

In 1937, the first-ever cooking show, "Cook's Night Out," made its debut on British television. Hosted by French chef Marcel Boulestin, the show consisted of five 15-minute episodes, catering to a privileged few as there were less than 20,000 television sets in the UK at the time. This humble beginning laid the foundation for the culinary entertainment industry that would eventually captivate global audiences.

The Rise of Cooking Shows in the Digital Age

Today, the landscape of cooking shows has undergone a remarkable transformation. Millions of viewers around the world tune in to countless cooking programs across platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and the Food Network. These shows have become incredibly influential, with studies suggesting that children who watch cooking shows featuring healthy foods are more likely to choose those foods themselves.

The Shift Towards Plant-Based Cooking

Despite the continued popularity of meat-heavy dishes on many US cooking and food-focused shows, a growing trend towards plant-based cooking is emerging. Research has shown that plant-based diets are associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. As a result, the number of shows highlighting the deliciousness, versatility, and health benefits of plant-based ingredients is on the rise.

Showcasing the Diversity of Plant-Based Cuisine

From Apple TV+'s "Omnivore," which follows Noma's René Redzepi on a culinary adventure exploring a wide range of plant-based foods, to YouTube Originals' "It's CompliPlated," where Tabitha Brown guides contestants through plant-based cooking challenges, the world of cooking shows is embracing the power of plant-based ingredients. Even long-running favorites like "The Great British Baking Show" and "Chopped" have featured vegan contestants and episodes, demonstrating the growing acceptance and appreciation for plant-based cuisine.

The Emergence of Vegan-Focused Cooking Shows

The rise of plant-based cooking has also given birth to the first-ever totally vegan cooking show, "Peeled," which premiered on YouTube in 2022. Co-created by Hell's Kitchen contestant Chef Josie Clemens and hosted by popular vegan chef Babette Davis and health expert Shabnam Islam, "Peeled" provides a platform for plant-based culinary arts to be taken seriously and enjoyed by vegan and vegetarian audiences alike.

The Future of Cooking Shows: Embracing Diversity and Sustainability

As the world of cooking shows continues to evolve, it is clear that the industry is embracing a more diverse and sustainable approach to food. From showcasing the health benefits of plant-based diets to highlighting the creativity and innovation of vegan chefs, cooking shows are playing a crucial role in shaping the way we consume and appreciate food. As the audience's appetite for plant-based content grows, the future of cooking shows promises to be even more exciting and transformative.