Mediated Human-Food Interaction for Remote Presence in Adult Family Relationships: A Social Practice Theory Approach

Family members have emotional, social, and cultural ties to food that keep them connected even when they no longer live together. Adult children leaving their parental households but checking in to see what is for dinner, sharing food photos, or seeking guidance on nostalgic family recipes are examples of staying connected through food. Human-Food Interaction (HFI) is a growing domain for food-tech innovation, and in this study, we investigate the potential of mediated HFI for closeness and social presence. We conducted interviews, photo diary studies, and co-design sessions with 16 participants to elicit family members’ sharing preferences and speculative ideas about mediated HFI. Using Social Practices Theory (SPT), we examined not only how family members envisioned technology mediation but also why they chose specific food practices to be mediated and what those practices/interactions added to their relationship. Our findings aligned with the SPT model proposed by Shove and colleagues (The Dynamics of Social Practice: Everyday Life and how it Changes 2012) and describe how family members attached sentiment to their food interactions (Meaning), envisioned different tools and technologies to craft connected food experiences (Material), and demonstrated awareness and knowledge about each other’s food interests and availability (Competence). We reflect on the intertwined relationships between these elements, highlight the nuances of family food practices and their mediation, and ultimately propose design implications by integrating literature from HFI and Social Presence.