Culinary Nutrition

Dairy and food culture

Australia’s food culture is shaped by the diverse communities that call it home. From traditional recipes to modern dining trends, dairy plays a role in many culinary traditions.

Australia is one of the most multicultural countries in the world and with that comes an incredible diversity of food traditions.

New migrants bring a wealth of culinary knowledge and techniques from their homelands, adding new layers to Australia’s evolving food landscape.

From vibrant multicultural food festivals to bustling markets and an endless variety of dining options, the impact of migration on Australian cuisine is undeniable—and celebrated worldwide.

Australia and the modern global dairy scene

Dairy is often described as a very Anglo-Saxon Australian tradition—splashed over cereal in the morning or spooned up as yoghurt for dessert. But its story goes far beyond the breakfast bowl. Across cultures (and the globe), dairy is shaping flavours, traditions and diets. 

For many migrant communities, dairy is a fridge staple and a taste of home. It’s the paneer in a rich curry, the labneh spread across warm bread, the kefir poured with care. It’s there in feasts and fasting, in festivals and celebrations, threaded through food traditions that span generations.

What this means for healthcare professionals

Food is fuel but it’s also so much more than that. For many, the dishes they grew up with are a connection to family, tradition and heritage. To culture, identity and belonging.

That’s why it’s essential for healthcare professionals to recognise and respect culturally diverse dietary patterns. Understanding how different communities incorporate dairy, whether in daily meals, religious practices or celebrations, helps create more inclusive, culturally safe healthcare practices.

The resource, available to download below, is designed to support your journey in building competencies in dairy and its place in culinary cultures.