Prior to becoming Pope, Jorge Mario Bergoglio was able to cook simple and healthy meals.

Pope Francis, prior to his ascension to the papacy, had a background as a chemical technician, having studied for this profession and worked briefly in the food processing industry.

Although there are no reports that he specifically graduated in “Food Chemistry,” his background in chemistry and experience in the food industry suggest a practical understanding of principles related to food.

There are reports that, before becoming Pope, the then Archbishop Jorge Mario Bergoglio enjoyed cooking his own simple meals in his quarters in Buenos Aires. He prepared healthy dishes such as skinless roasted chicken, vegetables, salads, and fruits.

After his election as Pope in 2013, he chose not to reside in the papal apartments but instead in the Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican. There, he used to have his meals in the common dining hall alongside other residents and staff. This decision reflects his well-known humble lifestyle and his preference for simplicity and closeness to people.

References:

• [Biography.com] Pope Francis: Biography, Catholic Church Leader, Jorge Bergoglio. https://www.biography.com/religious-figures/pope-francis
• [Britannica] Francis | Biography, Pope, Laudato Si’, Roman Catholic Church, & Facts | Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Francis-I-pope
• [Duke Divinity School] Pope Francis (1936–2025) and His Legacy | Duke Divinity School. https://divinity.duke.edu/news/pope-francis-1936-2025-and-his
• [Epicurean Traveler] PAPAL GASTRONOMY SINCE ST. PETER – Epicurean Traveler. https://epicurean-traveler.com/papal-gastronomy-since-st-peter/
• [PRP Channel] Pope Francis, cooking skills among Bergoglio’s new aspects – PRP Channel. https://www.prpchannel.com/en/papa-francesco-labilita-in-cucina-tra-i-risvolti-inediti-di-bergoglio/
• [USCCB] The Life and Ministry of Pope Francis | USCCB. https://www.usccb.org/offices/general-secretariat/life-and-ministry-pope-francis