Social Context Of Food And Eating

Question 1

What are the social influences on eating?

Answer 1

Preparation of food is surrounded with the ideas of parenting and care
Health and illness can lead to biographic disruption
Dependent on context of people and environment
Food can form family roles and activities
Identity such as political and ethical views
Convenience

Question 2

What are the economic influences of eating?

Answer 2

The affordability of food based on production and processing of food
Ethical and legal issues like animal welfare, human rights and food standards
Development of genetically modified foods

Question 3

How does the food industry affect contemporary diet?

Answer 3

There is little value in selling wholefoods, and food stabilisers and additives are used to prevent perishment and enhance taste. The production of ultra-processed foods can drive weight gain due to greater energy intake, but is used because it is cheap and easy to cook.

Question 4

What are the social factors in relation to obesity and eating disorders?

Answer 4

Socioeconomic status
Food insecurity
Obesogenic environments as a result of food deserts due to a lack of fruit and vegetables, that increases the prevalence of obesity
Stigmatisation of fat bodies

Question 5

Who is most at risk for food insecurity?

Answer 5

Younger people
Social renters
Ethnic minorities
Single parents
People in poor health.