| Food production processes, such as agriculture, have allowed most people in developed countries to have immediate access to food when they wish to eat it.
Snack foods, which are small quantities of food eaten periodically between meals, are becoming increasingly popular. Snacks offer an energy boost and quench hunger, but often contain preservatives, sweeteners and flavoring that can be unhealthy. Serious concerns have been raised about snack foods and their contribution to obesity, especially in the United States.
However, people continue to eat most of their food in a small series of one or more meals during the day, often eaten together socially with family and friends. The number, size and time of meals during the day are often influenced by one's social beliefs and environment. One's climate, culture, occupation working hours may be contributing factors. Cultural and religious beliefs may lead people to partake in feasting or fasting, such as the Muslim Ramadan festival. |