Food is definitely cross-cultural and ageless, isn't it?
I don't speak for others, but in my perspective, my image and content has been all over the internet since 1999. It's not "required" to verify your ID with a picture and the date - but it certainly helps. It gets the attention of people who are trying to find flesh & blood creators...and isn't the bottom line to build a good following to earn some decent money?
Here's another way of looking at "shout-outs". There are so many initiatives from people who want to find good quality creators and give them exposure: robinhoodwhale, nameinlights, and projectnewbie to name a few. We shout them out and call attention to them. When they link to our things, we consider it a very good thing - a blessing and a gift.
But when we are called out because our identity is in question, it is shocking and hurtful, especially if you're not a bot. But here's why I think this experience may be a very good thing for you.
Let go of the pride associated with feeling like you've been attacked. You were indeed called out and you've responded so we know you're human.
I was in the newspaper business for 7 years and I can tell you "bad news" sells better than "good news." I wouldn't be surprised if you've gotten an influx of people viewing your posts - maybe even a few new followers - and hopefully no haters. Haters suck.
You've currently got an audience reading your responses. Will you overcome adversity and be seen with grace and dignity? What you do from here is entirely up to you.