What does it really mean to be a “Foodie?”

Gourmand. Epicure. Gastronome. All words that mean the same thing—having an interest in food and fully enjoying it for the sake of pleasure.

But where does the line get drawn between a passing fancy with good food (and drink, for that matter) and a true obsession with the finest gourmet products on the planet? The Official Foodie Handbook was written in 1984, so it was around that time we can see the term’s genesis. Its use has quite clearly skyrocketed since then. At this point, it is a ubiquitous term that we simply can’t escape.

I consider myself a foodie. Why? Not just because I like good food. Really, who doesn’t? I’m a foodie because I want to know more about the indigenous region it was raised or grown in and how can I get my hands on more of it. I want the history of that food. I want to know what would be best to pair with that food. It doesn’t mean I’m a food critic. It means I’m critical of the things I choose to eat and I make sure it’s not crap.

But then there are the critics of foodies who let the word drip from their lips like a four-letter word. A foodie to them—chefs, food writers, and basically anyone affiliated with the food industry—is a poser.

So, is there a word that basically means foodie but isn’t foodie? The Huffington Post tackled this topic a few years ago with the suggestions of “food lover” and “food nerd.” It feels like they’re missing the mark with those monikers—particularly the nerd part.

As for me, I’m fine with being called a foodie. I don’t think there’s anything wrong that and I would like to see more of us become one. Life is a whole lot more fun when you’re in pursuit of fine food.