Rauwapping

Rauwapping refers to the practice of consuming raw, uncooked food, particularly vegetables, fruits, and other plant-based ingredients, as a primary or partial component of one's diet. The term is a blend of "raw" and "vegan," though it is not strictly limited to vegan diets and can include animal products if they are also consumed raw. Rauwapping is rooted in the belief that cooking destroys many of the natural enzymes, nutrients, and beneficial compounds found in whole foods, though scientific consensus on this claim varies.

The practice has historical roots in various cultures, including ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, Greeks, and Native American tribes, who incorporated raw foods into their diets. In modern times, rauwapping gained prominence through health-focused movements such as raw veganism, which emphasizes the consumption of unprocessed, plant-based foods. Advocates often cite potential benefits such as improved digestion, increased energy levels, and enhanced nutrient absorption. However, critics note that raw diets may lack certain nutrients, such as vitamin B12 and iron, unless carefully planned, and that some raw foods can pose food safety risks if not handled properly.

A typical rauwapping diet includes a wide variety of foods such as leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fruits, sprouted grains, and fermented vegetables. Meals often consist of salads, smoothies, energy balls, and dehydrated or lightly processed foods to maintain texture and digestibility. While some individuals follow a strict raw diet, others incorporate raw foods into a mixed diet for health or ethical reasons. The approach can be adapted to suit different lifestyles, though it requires careful attention to nutritional balance and food safety to avoid deficiencies or contamination.