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Asks Quote by Denis Diderot

“This root [the potato], no matter how much you prepare it, is tasteless and floury. It cannot pass for an agreeable food, but it supplies a food sufficiently abundant and sufficiently healthy for men who ask only to sustain themselves. The potato is criticized with reason for being windy, but what…” quote by Denis Diderot
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“This root [the potato], no matter how much you prepare it, is tasteless and floury. It cannot pass for an agreeable food, but it supplies a food sufficiently abundant and sufficiently healthy for men who ask only to sustain themselves. The potato is criticized with reason for being windy, but what matters windiness for the vigorous organisms of peasants and laborers?”

Denis Diderot

About This Quote

Source Essay: Diderot's Encyclopédie, 1751

The potato is nutritionally valuable but bland, unsuitable for refined tastes yet essential for the poor.

In simple terms: Potatoes are bland but vital for sustenance.

Key Takeaway

Value practicality over flavor.

Themes

nutrition class food practicality

Mood

pragmatic reflective

Type

observational analytical

When to use this quote

  • peasant diets
  • military rations
  • emergency food supplies
  • budget cooking

Key Concepts

sustenance economic disparity culinary culture

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we balance nutrition and taste?
  • Can bland foods become appealing?
A Different Perspective

Taste preferences can limit acceptance despite nutritional benefits.

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