Factors influencing food consumption dagger Bahrain*

The food consumption pattern of Bahraini households is affected by many factors. Industrialization led to a decline in the agricultural and fishing products with the result of more dependence on imported foods. Income and prices of foods limited the purchasing power of the households, particularly low social classes. The high population growth and family size affect the quantity of food consumed by different household members. Educational level of housewife and husband has also a potent effect on the food consumption pattern. Immigrants have their influence too. They introduced many dishes which have become popular in the Bahraini community. Television advertising of food products and utensils also plays an important role in modifying the food consumption of Bahraini households. This paper discusses some of the factors influencing food consumption in Bahrain.