TRADITIONAL FOOD PRESERVATION METHODS AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE: A STUDY AMONG THE BODO COMMUNITY OF KOKRAJHAR DISTRICT, ASSAM

The Bodo community, an indigenous group living in Assam in the northeastern region of India, has developed unique methods to preserve food. These traditional methods of food preservation play a significant role in maintaining the cultural identity of the community. The present paper attempts to explore various food preservation methods practiced by the Bodo community, such as sun-drying, smoking, fermentation, and pickling. The paper also focuses on examining the cultural and nutritional significance of these food preservation practices, and the challenges faced by the Bodo community in maintaining these traditional practices in the face of changing lifestyles and environmental conditions. By acknowledging these challenges, one can work towards finding solutions that allow the Bodo people to continue their age-old food preservation methods while adapting to modern realities.