Social factors that affect agriculture

• Cultural factors can affect market demand and methods used in food production. For example, horse meat is not popular in the UK but it is widely eaten in other European countries.
• Religious factors can affect market demand and affect the methods used in food production. People with religious convictions may avoid certain foods. Jews and Muslims do not eat pork while Hindus don’t eat beef.
• Ethical issues can affect market demand and affect the methods used in food production. A desire to reduce the environmental or social impact of food production can influence food choices, such fair trade or local food.