Variations in food consumption across different regions are shaped by a myriad of physical and human processes. Our study will examine these through the concepts of Food Availability Deficit (FAD) and Food Entitlement Deficit (FED). We'll explore how factors like politics, economics, culture, gender, socio-economic status, and global issues like obesity and malnutrition affect the way food is consumed. Let's take this flavorful journey across the globe!

• Definition: FAD implies food deficiencies caused by local shortages due to physical factors such as climate, soil, transport, storage, and relief organizations. Think of it like an "out-of-stock" situation in a grocery store due to a transport strike.

• Examples: Early studies linked famines and hunger primarily to physical factors, like climate's effect on food supplies.

• Definition: FED refers to people's access to food and the conditions that alter their access. It's more about "affordability" than "availability".

• Examples: Sen (1981) found that not all food shortages lead to hunger, such as in India, Ethiopia, and Sudan, where hunger increased even when food production was increasing. The concept of FED highlights the importance of considering the political and economic systems that control food production, distribution, and consumption.

• Before the oil industry developed in the 1930s, Bahrain was self-sufficient in fruit and vegetable production despite climate and soil issues.

• The shift to the oil industry resulted in a workforce exodus from agriculture and fisheries, leading to more imported foods and a shift in diet towards more protein, fat, and less carbohydrates.

• Effects of globalization were evident with new dishes being introduced by migrants and increased demand for convenience foods due to the rise in working women. Even the media played a role in shaping food consumption, especially among poorer households.