FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE FOOD SUPPLY AFFECT WHAT

FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE FOOD SUPPLY AFFECT WHAT YOU CHOOSE WHEN YOU GO TO THE STORE

AGRICULTURE • Agriculture is knowledge and skill to grow crops, raise livestock – In our country, some foods grow better in certain areas – We can purchase these foods because we ship by truck, train, boat – may cost more

ENVIRONMENT • Environment refers to air, water, soil, minerals • The environment affects what we can grow or raise – some crops grow better in some areas of the country. Example, peanuts grow well in Georgia • Environment also affect availability – a hurricane or drought can wipe out a crop

GOVERNMENT • Laws enforce the way foods are grown, processed, packaged and labeled • USDA – United States Department of Agriculture enforces standards for quality of meat, eggs, poultry • FDA – Food and Drug Administration ensures safety and wholesomeness of all other foods – inspect processing plants

ECONOMICS • Law of supply and demand • If consumers want a product and are willing to pay for it, producers will provide it. • Example: coffee and sugar are grown in faraway places.

TECHNOLOGY Technology means using knowledge to develop improved methods for doing tasks. Food scientists and food technologists work to develop new products, new packaging and add nutrients to food