Humans use objects, words and other symbolic expressions to help shape their living environment and to change the natural world for their existence and development. Among the first basic raw materials that enabled humans to survive, develop and secure themselves were stone, water, earth, plants, iron, wood and the flesh, bones and skins of wild animals. In this context we draw attention to bread and fish, important dietary and cultural ingredients that not only prevented famine but also became important mythical and religious symbols. They still have a special place in proverbs, art, dialects, memories and other cultural practices. The different types of bread and their preparation methods as well as the variety of fish and their consumption bear witness to the development of crafts and industry, to the way in which leisure and working time were spent and to the change in eating habits. The article offers a brief discussion of bread and fish and highlights the technological and socio-cultural developments in historical perspective, with a particular focus on today's consumer culture and capitalism.