ABSTRACT
This chapter takes a closer look at some of the external factors that govern the way young people eat. Despite many attempts to educate the population with health education campaigns, schools programmes and improved food labelling, people are continuing to become less healthy, with increasing rates of obesity and illnesses related to poor lifestyle. The food industry as a whole does a fantastic job of bringing affordable, hygienic food to the masses, whilst catering for every conceivable taste and requirement. It provides employment for a considerable proportion of the workforce; it generates a huge amount of income for the government through taxation and helps to keep the population happy and well fed. The chapter looks at different influences on how young people choose to eat, ranging from food provision and availability to advertising, peer pressure, family routines, nutritional knowledge, personal motivation and interest in eating.
