This is a cause-and-effect essay about fast food – how it become so popular and what its effects have been. It uses 4 paragraphs and a 3-7-7-3 layout (three sentences in the introduction, seven in the causes paragraph, seven in the effects paragraph, and three in the conclusion).
In the past people in the United Arab Emirates used to eat healthy, freshly prepared food with their families in the home. Today however, many people, particularly young people, prefer to eat fast food such as hamburgers, fried chicken, shawarma, or pizza. There are many reasons why this change has occurred, but this essay will also outline the serious effects of this move towards fast food on individuals and society. There are many reasons for the popularity of fast food. One of the main reasons is the change in lifestyle. Many people in the UAE are working long hours, shifts, or extended school days. They don’t have time to find ingredients or prepare good food. Women are now starting to work in the Emirates, and this can result in less time being available for preparing family meals. Another cause is the huge number of young, affluent people in the United Arab Emirates. The rapid development of the country has meant that young people, who comprise over 75% of the population, have money to spend. A third reason is advertising. The UAE is a modern, free-market country, with all forms of media such as the Internet and satellite television, and people like to try new products and different kinds of fast food. However, this change in diet can have some serious effects. One effect is on health. Many individuals in the UAE are becoming obese.These people will be less productive and have conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Another result of fast food culture is the loss of the family tradition of eating together. Children and adults rarely eat together now, and thus get less opportunity to talk. A further effect is on the economy. Although fast food is not very expensive, it is more expensive than cooking properly for yourself. Many of the fast-food companies are franchisees of foreign corporations, so profits leave the country. In conclusion, fast food, although it is convenient and a tasty addition to a diet, can have serious health and social effects. People should learn to choose fast food carefully and remember the pleasure of eating good food in good company.
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