Historian Joana Monteleone emphasizes the underlying political dimensions associated with food, arguing that eating transcends mere sustenance to become a form of communication that conveys values, identities, and social inequalities. In her book "Toda Comida É Política," Monteleone draws from her decade-long research on food, asserting that the composition of meals reflects the social systems and cultural contexts from which they arise.

Monteleone's interest in the history of food was inspired by her family, particularly her grandmother and mother. She pursued this passion academically, focusing initially on 19th-century food culture in São Paulo for her master's thesis, and subsequently expanding her exploration through her published works. Her findings indicate that various socio-political factors, including cultural heritage, economic conditions, and social hierarchies, significantly influence culinary practices and preferences.

Through her writing, Monteleone invites readers to view food as a document of culture, with each dish telling a story of its origins and the societal influences at play. Her work highlights the intricate connections between food and power dynamics, urging a deeper understanding of how personal choices around food are intertwined with broader political contexts and social justice issues.