ISSA Nutritionist Practice Exam

What factors affect a person's access to food and food selections?

1. Only dietary preferences

2. Cultural, economic, and medical considerations

3. Only medical conditions

4. Nutrition education

The correct answer is: Cultural, economic, and medical considerations

Access to food and food selections are influenced by a variety of factors, among which cultural, economic, and medical considerations play significant roles. Cultural factors encompass a person's traditions, beliefs, and food practices, which can dictate what types of food are acceptable or desirable. For example, some cultures have dietary restrictions based on religious beliefs, leading to specific food choices and avoidance of others. Economic considerations are also crucial as they determine an individual's or a family's financial ability to purchase certain food items. Limited resources can restrict access to fresh produce and higher-quality foods, leading to reliance on lower-cost, often less nutritious options. Medical considerations refer to health conditions that can impact dietary choices. For instance, individuals with diabetes may need to control their carbohydrate intake, while those with food allergies must avoid certain allergens regardless of preference. The other options, while they touch on relevant aspects of food choices, do not encompass the full range of influences. For example, focusing solely on dietary preferences ignores the critical impact of socioeconomic status and health-related issues on a person's ability to obtain and select food. Similarly, limiting the influence to only medical conditions overlooks cultural elements and economic factors that are paramount in understanding food access comprehensively.