Whilst all people have to eat to live, what they eat is largely determined by their cultural influences. Through developing an appreciation of the central role that food plays in people's lives, professionals concerned with nutrition education may increase both the relevance and effectiveness of what they do. This long awaited second edition focuses on the social and biocultural uses of food in ancient and contemporary societies throughout the world. After an initial chapter which explores the concept of cultural shaping of food choice, subsequent chapters address food ideology, cuisine, social uses of food, and issues such as religion, ethics, myths, taboos, superstitions and mass feeding. The features include special topics about airline food, allopathic dietary systems and recipe repertoires, as well as the most up-to-date research and information in this field.