Which of the following is the most appropriate way to measure the economic importance of the food service industry?

• A. By surveying customer satisfaction ratings
• B. By measuring the average price of meals served
• C. By calculating its contribution to gross domestic product (GDP)
• D. By counting the number of different cuisines available

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of economic importance: It refers to the impact or contribution of an industry to the overall economy, often measured in terms of output, income, or employment.
2. Recognize that customer satisfaction ratings and the number of different cuisines are qualitative or descriptive measures, which do not directly quantify economic impact.
3. Note that the average price of meals served reflects pricing but does not capture the total economic activity or value generated by the industry.
4. Identify that the contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) measures the total value added by the food service industry to the economy, including production, services, and income generated.
5. Conclude that calculating the industry's contribution to GDP is the most appropriate quantitative measure of its economic importance.