| Keyword |
Description |
| Sacrifices |
Giving up or offering something valuable, often as part of a ceremony or to show respect to someone or something, especially in old rituals |
| Symbolic |
Something that stands for or represents another idea or feeling; for example, the “bones” on pan de muerto are symbolic because they represent the dead and the cycle of life |
| Seasonal treats |
Special foods that are only made or eaten during a certain time of year, like pan de muerto for Day of the Dead |
Pan de muerto, a soft, sugary bread decorated with bone-shaped pieces, is traditionally eaten on the Day of the Dead in Mexico, November 1 and 2. Yet today, it’s found year-round in bakeries and supermarkets, creating discussion on whether this affects its cultural significance. For many Mexicans, sharing pan de muerto even in summer connects families to memories and traditions, even if it feels unusual at first.
Historically, pan de muerto originated during the Spanish conquest, when Spaniards replaced ritual sacrifices with wheat bread covered in red sugar to symbolize blood and hearts. The bread’s bone decorations are symbolic, and eating it is seen as a way to respect and even mock death, showing how Mexicans celebrate and defy it through food. While its recipe and appearance change across regions, orange blossom flavor and sugar on top make up its traditional taste, although supermarkets now sell new versions with chocolate, matcha, or pistachio.
Some argue that selling pan de muerto all year could harm what makes it special. Rituals and seasonal treats bring families together, and losing their limited availability could make the celebration less meaningful. Chef Pablo Porras notes that supermarkets often change recipes, use cheaper ingredients, and make “traditional” bread less tasty or unique. Local artisans maintain the original flavors, but their bread can be expensive and is less accessible to most people.
Despite criticism, the widespread availability of pan de muerto lets more people enjoy it and share special moments with family. Even when summer is far from the Day of the Dead, families gather, talk about their loved ones, and enjoy the bread together. It might not taste exactly as before, but the joy of sharing remains. Celebrating traditions can change over time, and sometimes, happiness is worth bending the rules for.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English |
Spanish |
| Cultural significance |
Importancia cultural |
| Appearance |
Apariencia |
| Celebration |
Celebración |
Time to discuss
- Why do people enjoy pan de muerto outside the Day of the Dead?
- Do supermarkets help or harm Mexican traditions?
- Should traditions always stay the same over time?
Let's write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph:
- Describe a family tradition you would like to keep, even if it has changed over time.
- Do you think it’s important to eat special foods only during festivals, or is it fine to have them anytime?
