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Why do we eat what we eat, select one dish from the menu in preference to another, choose one particular kind of restaurant or use a takeaway? Why are these dishes on the menu in the first place? Is it because the chef likes them, the customer or consumers wants them, or is this the only food available? What dictates what we eat?
Catering reflects the eating habits, history, customs and taboos of society, but it also develops and creates them. You have only to compare the variety of eating facilities available on any major high street today with those of a short while ago.
Taste affects food choice, and is based on biological, social and cultural perspectives. The perception of taste results from the stimulation of the taste cells that make up the taste buds. Taste is not specific to individual foods, but to the balance between four main types of chemical compound.
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Some Factors That Affect What We Eat
***The Individual ***
Everyone has needs, and wishes these to be met according to his or her own satisfaction.
Relationships
Eating is a necessity, but it is also a means of developing social relationships. The needs and preferences of the people you eat with should be considered. This applies in the family or at the place of study or work.
Emotional needs
Sometimes we eat not because we need food but to meet an emotional requirement:
• for sadness or depression
• for a reward or a treat, or to give encouragement to oneself.