Social factors
Social factors refer to the influence that other people have on us. For example, we are influenced by friends and by the groups to which we belong, such as churches or sports teams. Many dietary decisions result from social interaction and individual decision-making.

Examples:

• Adults are often loyal to the supermarket their family has always shopped at, or to their parents’ favourite brands.
  
• A sociable person may eat out regularly or meet friends for coffee, which influences the sort of food they buy and where they buy it.

Religious and cultural factors

Religious factors can influence the foods a person chooses and the way they are prepared. Religious beliefs can determine which foods must or must not be eaten.

Examples:

• Islam: defines which foods are permitted (halal) and prohibits pork. Permitted meats must be slaughtered in accordance with halal methods.
  
• Judaism: Permitted foods are classified as kosher; for example, meat and dairy products must not be cooked or eaten together.
  

Culture

Culture includes the beliefs, customs and behaviours shared by a group. Cultural factors determine:

• what a group eats
  
• as a kitchen
  
• where they eat
  
• who they eat with
  
• the value attached to the act of eating
  

Economic factors

Economic factors have a major influence on purchasing decisions.

• During periods of economic growth, when wages rise and credit is readily available, people shop more frequently and on impulse.
• In times of economic hardship, people become more focused and cautious before spending on non-essential items.

Disposable income (the money left over after tax) determines:

• the amount of food people can buy
• the variety of affordable foods
• how often they can eat out

Consumers with higher disposable incomes have access to a wider range of food and may choose to eat out more often.

Ethical and environmental factors

Some consumers prioritise ethical and environmental factors when choosing food. They are concerned about the wellbeing of the people, animals and communities involved in food production.

For example:

• Animal welfare can influence purchasing decisions; some consumers choose eggs from free-range hens rather than eggs from caged hens.
• There are also those who choose locally produced or sustainably produced food.

Environmental responsibility

Everyone has a responsibility towards the environment when choosing food.

Important questions include:

• Does the production process use a lot of resources or energy?
• Can the packaging be recycled?
• What is the environmental impact of food transport (food miles)?
• Was the food produced using sustainable practices?

Examples:

• Choose locally grown food to reduce your carbon footprint.
• Buy organic food and avoid synthetic fertilisers or pesticides.