Traditional eating patterns in Puerto Rico resemble those in Spain, including a continental breakfast, often a heavy midday meal, and a light evening meal. With time, a more Americanized eating pattern has been adapted, with lunches that may be from fast food, and heavier dinners (23). Puerto Rican food is not as spicy or hot as Mexican food, but it is well seasoned (14). Common seasonings include Sazón, a blend of spices that typically contains monosodium glutamate (MSG), annatto (similar to saffron), cilantro, and a blend of seasoning vegetables called sofrito (onion, green pepper, cilantro, garlic, and lean ham sautéed in oil) (14). A large percentage of foods in Puerto Rico are imported from the United States, thus the diet has become more Americanized, particularly in younger generations (14).
