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It is possible that part of the high variation in gut microbiota composition observed among individuals is due to the specific and complex differences in diet beyond the nutrient composition that can be estimated from dietary records and recalls. This study begs the question: do the microbes we eat as part of our normal daily diets contribute to the composition and function of our gut microbiota? There are many questions that remain to be answered. Under what circumstances do microbes consumed as part of meals remain in the gastrointestinal tract transiently versus persistently following a meal? Do the microbes we eat affect the function of the resident gut microbiota, even if they do not affect its composition, as has been suggested by some yogurt feeding studies \cite{McNulty_2011}? How do different cooking and preparation methods affect the microbe composition of meals and the survival characteristics of individual microbes through the gastrointestinal tract? How do specific factors such as length of transport or provenance of individual ingredients (e.g. imported vs. domestic), packaging materials, and handling of ingredients in homes alter the microbial composition of foods? The findings of this study suggest that the microbes we eat as part of normal diets vary in absolute abundance, community composition, and function. This variation depends on the specific ingredients in the meals, whether and how the foods are prepared and processed, and other potential factors, not explored here, including the provenance of ingredients. The significance of this variation on the gut microbiota composition and function, and its impact on human health remains to be elucidated.  All data underlying the results presented here can be found on [Figshare] (http://figshare.com/account/projects/2225)(http://figshare.com/account/projects/2225). Figshare (http://figshare.com/account/projects/2225).