Food Terms: A Mobile Application Celebrating Chinese Food Culture

Bringing Traditional Wisdom to Modern Life

Chinese food culture has long been intertwined with the country's traditional beliefs and practices. Each of the 24 solar terms represents a unique phase in the annual cycle, guiding people's daily activities, including diet and farming. Yinan Wu and Yuanbing Zhao's mobile application seeks to revive this ancient wisdom by reminding users to align their diet with the specific solar term they are in.

The application's interface is designed to be user-friendly and responsive across all mobile devices, catering to both iOS and Android users. With a focus on simplicity and functionality, the app provides timely reminders about the recommended foods and traditional folklore associated with each solar term.

By incorporating the 24 solar terms into their daily lives, users can not only enjoy a diverse and nutritious diet but also gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and its connection to nature. The app serves as a bridge between the past and the present, preserving and promoting the intangible cultural heritage of China.

The project, which started in September 2016 in Shenyang, China, was completed in April 2017. Throughout the design process, the team faced the challenge of optimizing the vast amount of information related to the solar terms and presenting it in a visually appealing and accessible manner. Their dedication and meticulous research resulted in a prototype that effectively conveys the essence of Chinese food culture.

Yinan Wu and Yuanbing Zhao's mobile application has been recognized for its outstanding design and cultural significance. In 2018, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Cultural Heritage and Culture Industry Design category. This prestigious accolade celebrates designs that showcase creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life.

With Food Terms, users can embark on a journey through the 24 solar terms, embracing the wisdom of the past while embracing a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. This innovative mobile application is a testament to the power of design in preserving and promoting cultural heritage.