An Ethno biological Glance on Globalization Impact on the Traditional Use of Algae and Fungi as Food in Bulgaria

Abstract

Bulgaria, situated in one of the hotspots of European biodiversity-the Balkan Peninsula, and inhabited since pre-historian time, is a good example for ethnobiological studies. The present paper, based on the studies of ethnobotanical and ethnomycological sources currently available combined with author’s field trips and inquires, follows the traditional use of fungi in the national cuisine, and the recent appearance of new, exotic mushrooms and algae and their products in the menu of Bulgarians. It is recorded that their consumption during the last two decades changed food habits of local people. This trend is accelerated by globalization and the increased rate of urbanization in the country.