Dr. Marawan Shahin, Professor of Hadith and its Sciences, Faculty of Usul Ad-Din (Theology), Al-Azhar Univ. states: “There is nothing authentic in the sources of Shari`ah saying that one should recite surat Al-Fatihah on taking food. What is reported in this regard is that one should mention the name of Allah ‘bismillah’ as `Umar ibn Abi Salama reported: ‘I was a boy under the care of Allah’s Apostle and my hand used to go around the dish while I was eating. So Allah’s Apostle said to me, ‘O boy! Mention the Name of Allah and eat with your right hand, and eat of the dish what is nearer to you.’
Having stated this, it becomes clear that what is reported on the authority of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is mentioning basmalah on eating food.