Farewells and Flavours: A Global Look at Funeral Food Traditions
Published on Wed Jun 18 2025 in Community
Food has always brought people together—especially in moments of grief. Across the globe, cultures use food to honour loved ones who have passed. From pavlova in New Zealand to pickled herring in Scandinavia, funeral food tells a powerful story about community, culture, and remembrance.
So, what’s on the table when it comes to mourning traditions around the world?
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🥧 New Zealand & Australia: The Pavlova, Sausage Rolls & a Good Cuppa
In Aotearoa, funeral gatherings often feature familiar comfort food—scones, sandwiches, sausage rolls, and yes, the iconic pavlova. It's not just about eating; it's about sharing, storytelling, and making sure no one grieves alone.
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Japan: Rice Bowls and Respect
Japanese funerals are deeply ceremonial. After the formalities, guests receive a meal known as a koden, often including rice, tempura, and miso soup. The meal is symbolic — nourishment for both body and soul.
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Poland: Pickled Herring and Hearty Fare
In Poland, post-funeral meals (stypa) are serious affairs. Mourners gather for hot dishes like pierogi, borscht, and pickled herring—comfort food served to honour the deceased and ease grief.
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United States: From Casseroles to Cake
In the American South, “funeral potatoes” (a creamy cheesy bake) are a staple. In the Midwest, you might find ham sandwiches and Jell-O salads. It’s less about delicacy, more about comfort and community.
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Why Does This Matter?
Whether it’s a simple pav or a feast of dumplings, food plays a key role in how we say goodbye. But behind the shared meals and warm memories lies the reality: funerals can be expensive.
In New Zealand, the average funeral costs between $10,000 and $15,000 or more —and catering is just one part of it. Between venues, transportation, flowers, and more, it adds up quickly.
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The Case for Funeral Insurance
Funeral insurance ensures your loved ones aren’t left footing the bill—whether it’s for a quiet tea or a full buffet. A simple lump-sum payout can help cover funeral costs so your family can focus on celebrating your life—food, laughter, and stories included.
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Final Word
No matter where you're from or what ends up on the table, food has a way of turning grief into connection. It’s how we honour the past and comfort the living.
So whether you’re a fan of pavlova or pickled herring, plan a farewell that reflects your story—and support your family through it.
Sign up for funeral insurance today with Momentum Life. It’s a simple, quick online purchase of funeral cover involving no medicals and no paperwork; a breeze of a process.
A little planning now can mean a world of comfort later.
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The content provided in this article is for information purposes only. The information is of a general nature and does not constitute financial advice or other professional advice. To the extent that any of the content constitutes financial advice, it is limited to Momentum Life products only and does not consider your specific financial needs or goals. You should consider whether the information is appropriate for you and seek independent professional advice, if required.
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