Is Food Crisis Around the Corner?
Following a devastating wildfire in August, Russia put a halt to its grain exports, driving up the price of wheat by 45 percent in five weeks and raising fears that another global food crisis was imminent. Those fears turned out to be unfounded, but food challenges remain acute, particularly for the developing world. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization concluded last week that while there is no impending global "food crisis," there is a serious danger in price volatility caused by speculation, panic buying and hoarding. Even if global supply and demand remain in balance, fluctuations in the price of food can have a devastating impact on those already struggling to pay for their food. Using Gallup's data on the top five countries where citizens struggle the most to afford food, we examine challenges to food security. Global Top 5s is a monthly feature by RealClearWorld.com powered by Gallup's worldwide research. Learn more at Gallup.com.
