Factors influencing food choice (health, social, economic, environmental, technological)

Factors Influencing Food Choice

Health Factors

Understand that health factors, including dietary requirements and food intolerances, can significantly influence food choice.
Recognise that individuals with certain health conditions may follow specialist diets, for example, a low-sodium diet for those with hypertension.
Note that lifestyle choices, such as following a vegan or low-carb diet, can also affect food selections.

Social Factors

Acknowledge that social factors play a role in determining food choices, including cultural and religious norms.
Be aware that the types of food we choose to consume can be influenced by our social groups and peer pressure.
Understand the impacts of traditions and customs, which may dictate specific food choices during certain events or holidays.

Economic Factors

Commit to memory that economic factors, such as income and affordability, directly impact food choices.
Recognize that budget constraints can often lead to the selection of cheaper, potentially less healthy food options.
Understand that access to certain food items may be limited depending on one’s geographic location, affecting the dietary choices available to them.

Environmental Factors

Remember that environmental factors involve the awareness and concerns about the environmental impacts of food production.
Understand how ethical sourcing, concerns about sustainability, and animal welfare can influence food choices.
Be conscious of the rise in popularity of locally sourced and organic food, driven by consumers’ increasing concerns about the environment.

Technological Factors

Recognise that technological factors such as food innovations, online delivery services, and food tracking apps can shape consumer food choices.
Understand that the convenience provided by technology often drives food choices, such as the preference for ready meals.
Note that the internet can influence dietary choices, through access to nutritional information, health trends, recipes, and dietary advice.