Conceptual models of food choice: Influential factors related to foods, individual differences, and society

Effective food choices play a crucial role in improving public health and ensuring the sustainability of our planet. However, understanding the complexity behind these choices requires a comprehensive approach that considers various influencing factors. This paper explores the need for a multidisciplinary framework to effectively address the many elements that contribute to food decision-making.

The review identifies several key determinants that influence food choice, categorized into distinct groups. These include internal factors related to the food itself, such as sensory and perceptual features, and external factors like information, social context, and the physical environment. Additionally, personal-state factors, encompassing biological needs and psychological components, habits, and past experiences, significantly shape individual preferences. Cognitive factors—like knowledge, attitudes, and anticipated outcomes—along with sociocultural influences, including culture and economic and political conditions, create a complex landscape of food choice.

Furthermore, the article discusses the potential interactions among these factors and their impact on final food selections. The call for a unified approach emphasizes that collaboration among various research disciplines, backed by empirical evidence, is vital for enhancing the understanding of food choices. The proposed framework not only aims to enrich existing conceptual models but also serves as a strategic guide to foster better communication and collaboration across diverse research fields. [NPID: Consumer behavior, food choice, decision-making, sustainable]

Year: 2026

Reference: Chen, P. J., & Antonelli, M. (2020). Conceptual Models of Food Choice: Influential Factors Related to Foods, Individual Differences, and Society. Foods (Basel, Switzerland), 9(12), 1898. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9121898

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