Why We Eat What We Eat
External Influences
Economics - Money to budget for food.
Environmental - Shortages may cause prices to skyrocket.
Technological - Buy items online, research on food items.
Individual Influences
Psychological - Stress and Emotion, can cause you to lose your appetite.
Personal - Many people have different favorite foods. It just varies on what you like or dislike!
Cultural and Customs - Every religion has their own type of food culture. Just depends on the racial, and religious group you are.
Traditions - These depend on your religion group also, many Americans celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc. as a tradition.
Healthy Food Choices
Weight Management - a long-term approach to a healthy lifestyle. It includes a balance of healthy eating and physical exercise to equate energy expenditure and energy intake.
Physical Education Needs - sports and education that is taught in school.
"My Plate" compared to the "Food Pyramid" - So in May 2011, the USDA finally ditched the pyramid concept in favor of a brand new shape, a circle; aka a plate!
Nutritional Labels on Packaging - These FDA Food Labeling web pages address the labeling requirements for foods under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and its amendments. Food labeling is required for most prepared foods, such as breads, cereals, canned and frozen foods, snacks, desserts, drinks, etc.
Food Groups to Encourage for Specific Populations - The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends increasing your consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and low-fat or nonfat dairy products.