A taste of nostalgia: Links between nostalgia and food consumption

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to analyze the links between nostalgia and food consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on an exploratory qualitative analysis of 104 descriptions of nostalgic food consumptions, the use of NVivo helps to substantiate and interpret the textual interview data.

Findings

The research suggests six themes of food nostalgia (childhood, yearning, substitute, homesickness, special occasions and rediscovery). Prior research suggests that nostalgia is rather a negative or ambivalent emotion; however, the findings of this study suggest that nostalgic food consumption is rather related to positive emotions.

Practical implications

Perspectives are given for the use of nostalgia in an advertising context and as a reinsurance factor.

Originality/value

This research integrates marketing and sociological perspectives to better understand links between food consumption and nostalgia.

Citation

Vignolles, A. and Pichon, P.-E. (2014), "A taste of nostalgia: Links between nostalgia and food consumption", Qualitative Market Research, Vol. 17 No. 3, pp. 225-238. https://doi.org/10.1108/QMR-06-2012-0027