People around the world select their foods and meals according to particular choices based on physiological disorders and diseases, traditions, lifestyles, beliefs, etc. In this chapter, two of these particular alimentations are reviewed: those of the gourmet and the frail elderly. They take place in an environment where food is usually synonymous of body health disregarding its effects on social, cultural and psychological aspects, including emotions. Based on an extensive literature review, it is proposed that the paradigm changes from food equals health to food means well-being, the latter encompassing physical and physiological aspects as well as psychological, emotional and social aspects at the individual and societal levels. The growing food and nutrition requirements of an aging population are reviewed and special nutritious and enjoyable products available for this group are discussed.
Keywords: Elderly; Food risks; Gastronomy; Nutritionism; Pleasure; Processing; Well-being.
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