Breadcrumbs are small, dry particles made from finely chopped or ground bread, often seasoned or plain, and they serve as a versatile ingredient in many cuisines worldwide. They have a crisp, crunchy texture when cooked and a mild, toasty flavor that complements a variety of dishes. In international cooking, breadcrumbs are commonly used as a coating for fried foods, a binder in meatballs and veggie patties, or as a topping for casseroles to add texture and browning. Historically, breadcrumbs have been a practical way to utilize leftover bread, popularized in European culinary traditions, and their use has spread globally as a simple method to enhance texture and flavor in baked and fried dishes.