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The following infographic shows two influencing factors on evening meal consumption - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1 - 2021
Question 1
The following infographic shows two influencing factors on evening meal consumption. (What Ireland Ate Last Night, Report 2020, Bord Bia Thinking House) Health an... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The following infographic shows two influencing factors on evening meal consumption - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1 - 2021
Step 1
In relation to the infographic above, suggest how (i) health and wellbeing might influence food choices.
Answer
Health and wellbeing significantly impact food choices through various factors.
- Dietary Guidelines: Individuals are more likely to follow dietary guidelines that promote reduced intake of harmful ingredients, leading to healthier options.
- Nutritional Awareness: People are increasingly aware of the nutritional value of food which influences their preference for low-fat, high-fiber, and vitamin-rich foods.
- Health Goals: Many individuals set personal health goals, such as weight loss or managing health conditions (e.g., diabetes), which directs them towards healthier meal options.
Step 2
In relation to the infographic above, suggest how (ii) responsible living might influence food choices.
Answer
Responsible living influences food choices by encouraging consumers to consider sustainability and ethical sourcing of food.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: People are more inclined to choose local and organic foods that reduce their carbon footprint.
- Waste Reduction: The emphasis on using leftovers and minimizing waste affects meal planning and purchasing habits, leading to more thoughtful decisions.
- Consumer Rights: Increased awareness of consumer rights leads people to select brands that align with their ethical beliefs and practices.
Step 3
Identify and describe contemporary trends in Irish eating patterns.
Answer
Contemporary trends in Irish eating patterns include:
- Nutritiously Conscious Eating: More individuals are paying attention to food labels and opting for healthier choices, affecting dining habits.
- Flexitarianism: A shift toward a plant-based diet can be seen, with many adopting a flexitarian approach, reducing meat consumption while still including it occasionally.
- Increased Snacking: Snacking has become more common, especially due to busy lifestyles, influencing the frequency and types of food consumed.
Step 4
Micronutrients are essential for good health and wellbeing. Give an account of iron with reference to: sources in the diet.
Answer
Iron sources in the diet include:
- Animal Sources: Rich sources such as red meat, liver, kidney, and fish.
- Plant Sources: Non-heme iron found in legumes, tofu, dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and fortified cereals.
Step 5
Micronutrients are essential for good health and wellbeing. Give an account of iron with reference to: biological functions.
Answer
Biological functions of iron include:
- Oxygen Transport: Iron is a crucial component of hemoglobin in red blood cells, enabling oxygen transport to cells.
- Enzymatic Reactions: It plays a role in numerous enzymatic processes, including energy production and metabolic functions.
Step 6
Micronutrients are essential for good health and wellbeing. Give an account of iron with reference to: effects of deficiency.
Answer
Effects of iron deficiency can include:
- Anemia: A common outcome causing fatigue, weakness, and cognitive impairments.
- Impaired Immunity: A weakened immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
Step 7
Identify and explain two factors which affect the absorption of iron in the body.
Answer
Two factors affecting iron absorption include:
- Vitamin C Intake: The presence of vitamin C can enhance non-heme iron absorption by converting it into a more readily absorbable form.
- Dietary Components: Certain foods, such as those high in calcium and phytates, can inhibit iron absorption, leading to less efficient utilization of dietary iron.
Step 8
Devise a set of strategies when purchasing foods and planning meals for families with irregular daily routines.
Answer
Strategies for purchasing foods and planning meals include:
- Meal Prepping: Set aside time to prepare meals in advance to ensure ready-to-eat options are available.
- Flexible Recipes: Create adaptable recipes using staple ingredients that can be cooked or reheated easily.
- Bulk Purchasing: Buy in bulk to save costs and time, focusing on versatile items such as rice, pasta, and frozen vegetables.
- Using a Schedule: Develop a meal schedule to ensure families can adapt to their varying routines, including quick meals for busier days.