The motif of food and drink is traditionally associated with nurturing and comfort. However, in The Surrogate Mother, McFadden subverts this symbolism to illustrate the deceptive nature of appearances. Throughout the narrative, food and drink are connected with concealed agendas and the infliction of harm, underlining the theme of Deception and Trust in Relationships.

As Abby’s assistant, Monica frequently brings her boss coffee and lunch and serves refreshments during meetings. Presenting herself as a caring provider of sustenance reinforces Abby’s misguided belief that Monica would make the ideal surrogate mother. Abby’s later realization that Monica has been dosing her food and drink with methamphetamines underlines how her character manipulates appearances to pursue her secret scheme. McFadden also portrays undertaking corporate catering duties as a sign of professional juniority. Thus, Monica’s usurpation of Abby at work is signaled when Denise asks the protagonist to clean away the coffee cups while her assistant talks to important clients.

Gertie’s character is closely aligned with food, as Abby’s fondest memories of her former assistant involve her delicious homemade cookies. The depiction of Gertie as a comforting maternal figure who demonstrates her caring nature through food is reinforced when she unexpectedly arrives at Abby’s apartment to cook her breakfast. Eating Gertie’s food in the homely setting of the kitchen gives Abby a brief sense of security at her lowest point. The revelation that Gertie spiked her orange juice with a potentially fatal dose of sleeping pills demonstrates, once again, the dangers of trusting appearances.

Sam’s connection to food in the novel starkly contrasts with Monica’s and Gertie’s. His lack of culinary talent is humorously emphasized throughout the narrative as his attempts to present Abby with delicious meals are largely inedible. Sam’s unappetizing dishes, despite his well-meaning efforts, are juxtaposed with the hostile intentions of the antagonists, disguised as hospitality. The symbol of Sam’s apron underlines the marked differences between the characters. An anniversary gift from Abby, the apron represents Sam’s attempts to cook for his wife as an imperfect expression of genuine devotion. Meanwhile, when Gertie dons Sam’s apron, it is to produce a fatal meal for the protagonist. Sam’s surprisingly tasty creation of homemade baby food for David at the end of the novel underlines how his cooking is motivated by love.