food issues, challenges and futures

Question 1

global food security

Answer 1

when all people at all times have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food to meet dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life

Question 2

what are the five dimensions of food security

Answer 2

availability
accessibility
acceptability
stability
adequacy

Question 3

availability

Answer 3

Availability refers to the provision of sufficient quality food for all people at all times, regardless of whether it is provided by aid or purchased by the consumer.
- location of food outlets
- availability of food within stores
- price, quality, and variety of available food

Question 4

accessibility

Answer 4

Accessibility is achieved when everyone has physical and economic access to quality, affordable, nutritious foods that meet their individual needs.
- home storage, preparation and cooking facilities
- the ability to buy and transport food
- knowledge and skills to make appropriate choices
- time and mobility to shop for and prepare food

Question 5

acceptability

Answer 5

Acceptability occurs when the food people have access to culturally acceptable food that is obtained in ways that
do not compromise people’s dignity, self-respect, or human rights. For example, in some cultures, people do not eat meat, or animals must be slaughtered in a particular way. Acceptability would mean these people have access
to food that meets their cultural needs without compromising their values and beliefs.
- culturally appropriate
- produced in a way which does not compromise people, animals, land

Question 6

adequacy

Answer 6

This dimension relates to the provision of adequate food that is nutritious, safe to eat, and sustainably produced.

Question 7

stability

Answer 7

For stability to be achieved, a population, household, or individual must always have access to an adequate food
supply. Stability can only be achieved when external influences, such as economics, climate, and weather, do not impact the provision of food.
- reliable

Question 8

factors that contribute to global food insecurity

Answer 8

climate change
limited resources such as water and energy
inequalities
peoples diets
urbanisation
food waste
soil degradation
supply chain interruptions
trade policies and agreements
biofuels

Question 9

climate change

Answer 9

Climate change refers to the long-term changes to global weather patterns, such as changes in temperature,
precipitation, and weather extremes. It is caused by an increase in greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes.
These changing climate and weather conditions make it more difficult for farmers to produce crops
and rear animals. This may decrease the amount of available food.

Question 10

limited recources such as water and energy

Answer 10

Water shortages can decrease crop yields and limit agricultural production, particularly in areas where irrigation is
necessary to grow crops. Similarly, energy shortages can disrupt food supply chains, making it difficult to transport and store food.

Question 11

food waste

Answer 11

Food waste contributes to global food insecurity in several ways. Valuable resources, such as energy, land and
water are used to produce food. If this food is not consumed, then not only is the food wasted; but the resources
that went into producing the food are also wasted. Secondly, the loss of food due to waste means that less food is
available for consumption, which can lead to higher prices and reduced availability for individuals who are already
food insecure. Finally, decomposing food waste that ends up in landfill creates methane gas which contributes to
global warming and climate change. Which, impacts global food security significantly.

Question 11

inequalities

Answer 11

Income inequality can limit access to healthy and nutritious food for some individuals and families, particularly
those living in poverty. It can also result in unequal access to education and training, which can limit opportunities
for people to gain employment. Inequalities can also affect food distribution and availability, as some regions or
populations may have more limited access to fresh, healthy food than others.

Question 11

urbanisation or the urban sprawl

Answer 11

Urban sprawl or urbanization refers to the expansion of urban areas. It results in more buildings, houses, schools,
shops and services like hospitals being built in the outer areas of cities, on land that was previously natural, like
forests or fields.

Question 12

peoples diets

Answer 12

Diets that consist of a significant amount of meat products, can put pressure on livestock production and contribute
to environmental issues such as deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, an increase in demand
for plant-based foods can have a positive impact on the environment, as it can reduce the environmental impact
associated with livestock production.

Question 13

soil degradation

Answer 13

Soil degradation is a term used to describe the deterioration of soil quality over time. It often happens as a result of
intensive agriculture, deforestation, overgrazing, pollution or overuse of fertilisers, pesticides, and water. Soil
degradation can lead to a decline in the quantity and quality of crops produced, reduced biodiversity, and increased
soil erosion. It can also lead to the release of carbon into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.

Question 14

food insecurity

Answer 14

the condition of not having access to sufficient food, or food of an adequate quality, to meet one’s basic needs.

Question 15

solutions to food security

Answer 15

‘Innovations can result in new or improved food products in response to nutritional, health, environmental, sociocultural, political and economic influences of the community’.
need to be thinking about;
* innovations in food production
* new technologies in food production

Question 16

groups of people who experience food insecurities

Answer 16

aboriginal and torres strait islanders
low income earners
remote areas
people with disability
people who are homeless
migrants
older us on low income
young aus on low income

Question 17

low income earners

Answer 17

Soil degradation is a term used to describe the deterioration of soil quality over time. It often happens as a result of
intensive agriculture, deforestation, overgrazing, pollution or overuse of fertilisers, pesticides, and water. Soil
degradation can lead to a decline in the quantity and quality of crops produced, reduced biodiversity, and increased
soil erosion. It can also lead to the release of carbon into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.

Question 18

remote areas

Answer 18

People living in rural and remote areas are more likely to experience food insecurity than those closer to larger
towns or cities. People may have an inadequate food supply in rural and remote areas because transporting goods
there may be too expensive, particularly when perishable foods need to be stored at specific temperatures. Climate
and weather conditions can also make transporting food to these areas impossible.
The cost of transportation and setting up shops in these areas with small populations deters many larger
companies from establishing commercial supermarkets and shops. This results in townspeople relying on smaller
convenience stores where food is often sold at a higher price and is not very fresh.

Question 19

aboriginal and torres strait islanders

Answer 19

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in Australia are more likely to experience food insecurity due to
factors such as the loss of cultural knowledge and skills, poverty, poor health outcomes, social isolation, and limited
access to fresh food in remote communities. Addressing food insecurity requires improving access to healthy and
affordable food, addressing all disadvantages, and promoting recognition of Indigenous food systems and
knowledge.

Question 20

people with disability

Answer 20

People with a disability are more likely to be food insecure due to factors such as limited employment opportunities,
lower incomes, and increased medical expenses. These factors can make it difficult to afford sufficient and healthy
food, especially when living on a fixed income.

Question 21

people who are homeless

Answer 21

For some people, living on a lower income and being unable to find employment can result in homelessness. Food
insecurity for homeless people is a significant concern. People without accommodation often sleep on friends’
couches, on the streets, or in cars. Food insecurity is exceptionally high among homeless people who do not have
a place to store, prepare, and eat food.

Question 22

migrants

Answer 22

New migrants and refugees in Australia are more at risk of food insecurity because of a low income. They may
initially find it hard to find work if they cannot speak and understand English. They may also have experienced
trauma and consequently have physical and mental health conditions that further impact their ability to work. Those
that do find work are often employed in low-skilled occupations that pay very little.

Question 23

older aus on low income

Answer 23

Older Australians, students, and other people on low incomes are more likely to suffer from food insecurity due to a
lack of money. These groups may have limited income and face high expenses related to housing, healthcare, and
other necessities. This can make it difficult to afford sufficient and healthy food.

Question 24

young aus on low income

Answer 24

Young people, particularly those who are unemployed, are more likely to suffer from food insecurity due to a lack of
financial resources. Unemployment can also make it difficult to afford sufficient and healthy food, especially for
those who are not yet established in the workforce.

Question 25

how to improve equity in food access and distribution

Answer 25

• community garden programs (pakenham community garden)
• education and skills programs (the koori cooking program)
• food relief organisations (foodbank, food coops)
• food recovery programs (food is free, farmers pick, second bite, foodbank, ozharvest)
• government grants + subsidies (outback stores)

Question 26

how to improve equity in food access and distribution using technology

Answer 26

• Online cooking and educational programs (oz harvest’s community kitchen program)
• Mobiles Apps (the good tucker app)
• Use of Big Data
• Agricultural Biotechnology (Agritech)
• Artificial Intelligence
  Cell-based, lab-grown, synthetic or 3D printed meat
• Drone and GPS Technologies
• Internet of Things (IoT)
• Nanotechnology
• Solar Technology
• Sonar (sound navigation and ranging) technology, shockwaves, ultrasounds and satellite imagery

Question 27

food sovereignty

Answer 27

occurs when people have developed or are developing a food system that focuses on the ecology and sustainability and enables them to chose the food they want to eat, where it comes from, and how it is grown
- 6 pillars

Question 28

focus on food for people

Answer 28

prioritising peoples right to access safe, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food. it rejects the idea of food as a mere commodity to be traded by large agricultural businesses.

Question 29

building knowledge and skills

Answer 29

emphasises the need to develop and preserve the knowledge and skills of food provideres and produces

Question 30

localising food systems

Answer 30

advocates for localised food systems that bring food provideres and consumers closer together

Question 31

valuing food providers

Answer 31

recognises and values the contributions of small scale farmers, indigenous communities, fisherman, and other food providers. it supports their rights, dignity and well being challenging the exploitation often faced by these groups

Question 32

building food soveriegnty networks

Answer 32

refers to the establishment of connections and collaborations amoung different individuals and groups invloved in the food system. these networks aim to strengthen solidarity and cooperation between small scale farmers, consumers, activists, researches and other stakeholders who support food sov

Question 33

working with nature

Answer 33

emphasises the importance of sustainable farming practices. promoting farming methods that work in harmony with nature, conserve biodeversity, protect ecosystems, and reduce reliance things such as synthetic pestcides and fertilisers.

Question 34

similarities and differences between food security + sovereignty

Answer 34

• food security does not consider the impact that producing and consuming foods has on the enviornment and the ethical implications of peoples food choices. it is mainly concerned with people aqquiring foods that meet their physical need and food preference and avoid hunger. food security does not distinguish where food comes from, people who ask for food seurity are looking for large scale opperations like supermarkets.
  it mainly focuses on how people can access food they need and how it can be distributed to them
  and focuses on having a stable supply of quality food that meets the dietry and cultural needs
• food soveriegnty provides all those (1st point) but also aligns a persons ecological, ethical and enviornmental beliefs.
  promotes local, small scale food production where produces are paid a fair price for their products.
  focuses on peoples right to decude where there food comes from and the kind of food system they access. encourgaing people to engage with how and where they get there food.
  promotes and supports people in having more control over their food systems

Question 35

food citezenship

Answer 35

occurs when people demonstarte food related behaviours to support a food system that promotes equity and fairness and is economically, ethically and enviornmentally sustainable

Question 36

the relationship between food sovereignty + Citizenship

Answer 36

• food soveriegnty cannot exist without food citezenship
• food cit is abour choices we make as individuals and food sov is about how food systems work in the whole community.
• both ideas focus on being fair, sustainable and thoughtful about food.

Question 37

ethical concerns

Answer 37

Ethical concerns about food can include fair pay for farm workers, treating animals well, farming in a way that’s
good for the environment, and making sure the food we eat is good for us. The choices we make about food can
have significant impacts on the world around us.
With regard to food, ethical concerns might be about caring for animals, protecting the environment, fair treatment
for workers, and the impact of food production on our health.

Question 38

sociocultural concerns

Answer 38

Sociocultural concerns are issues that matter to specific groups of people in a society. Different groups can have
different concerns based on influencing factors such as their background, education, income, where they live, their
age, their gender, and other parts of their social identity. These concerns arise from each group’s unique
experiences, values, beliefs, and norms in the groups they interact with in society.
In the food system, different groups can have different sociocultural concerns. For instance, environmentalists
might support a plant-based diet because they’re worried about the impact of raising animals for food on the
environment.

Question 39

sim + diff between sociocultural + ethical

Answer 39

ethical concerns tend to be focused on broader moral principles, while sociocultural concerns are
more context-specific, shaped by the values and norms within particular groups or communities. However, both
concepts play significant roles in shaping food choices, behaviours, and the overall food system.

Question 40

animal welfare concerns

Answer 40

Many people worry about how animals are treated in food production. They are concerned about things like
overcrowding, harsh treatments, antibiotic use, pollution, and the effect on the environment, like deforestation and
methane gas. These worries have made people interested in other ways to make food, such as organic farming,
free-range systems, and even plant-based diets.

Question 41

plant based foods

Answer 41

Concern for animals has led to more plant-based foods in the shops. This includes
things like plant-based meats and milk alternatives like almond and soy milk.

Question 42

animal welfare certified products

Answer 42

To meet demand, some food makers and shops sell products that
are certified as being good for animal welfare. These include things like meat, eggs, or milk made under
certain standards, such as being palm oil free.

Question 43

sustainability concerns

Answer 43

Grass-fed beef has gained significant prevalence in the market due to growing consumer
demand for healthier and more sustainable meat options. Grass-fed cattle are allowed to graze on natural
pastures, enabling them to engage in their natural behaviours and have a higher quality of life.
- lower enviornmental imoact and less land use

Question 44

health and nutrition concerns

Answer 44

People are becoming more aware of how the food they eat affects their health. They want to avoid things like
pesticides, genetically modified crops, and artificial additives, which can all have potential health risks. These
trends reflect a growing consumer awareness about the relationship between diet and health, and a corresponding
shift in the food industry to meet these demands.
- organic produce
- GMO free foods
- addictive free /minimally processed foods
- plant based dairy alternatives
- reduced sugar products
- gluten free foods
- prepared meal services
- protein enriched foods

Question 45

cultural preservation and food sovereignty concerns

Answer 45

Concerns related to cultural preservation greatly influence the food choices and variety of food available to
Australian consumers, particularly regarding the protection of cultural heritage, traditional food customs, and
indigenous wisdom.
- indigenous foods
- multucultural foods

Question 46

fair trade and social justice concerns

Answer 46

Concerns around Fair Trade and social justice are significant among Australian food consumers, as they aim to endorse equitable practices
within the food industry. These considerations shape their food choices and influence
the diversity of food available.
- fair trade certified products
products from small scale farmers, indigenous communities and local producers

Question 47

sustainability of primary food production

Answer 47

In primary food production, environmental sustainability involves minimising negative impacts on
ecosystems, conserving biodiversity, and ensuring long-term agricultural productivity.

Question 48

biodiversity

Answer 48

is the number and variety of species living in or occupying a specific location.

Question 49

use of fertilisers

Answer 49

A fertiliser is any substance containing nutrients that is added to soil or applied to a plant to promote plant growth
and nourishment. They improve fertility by adding nutrients to the soil for crops and plants to absorb. There are two
types of fertilisers: synthetic or man-made fertilisers and organic fertilisers.

Question 50

use of pestisides

Answer 50

Around 8000 pesticide products have been approved as safe by the Australian Government; approximately 75%
are used in agriculture. A significant number of crops in Australia are grown using pesticides.
Pesticides can be made from bacteria, chemicals, and viruses. They work by making crops taste awful or killing the organisms that attack crops.

Question 51

risks associated with biodiversity

Answer 51

• Animals and plants move to other habitats or face extinction
• Habitats and ecosystems take a long time to recover
• Poor quality crops and plants can
  be depleted of nutrients
• invasion by pests

Question 52

risks associated with fertilisers

Answer 52

• Increase in gas emissions
• Groundwater pollution
• Eutrophication
• Soil acidification

Question 53

risk associated with pestisides

Answer 53

• Create superbugs
• Decrease biodiversity and destroy non-targeted species
• Human health
• Pollute groundwater

Question 54

use of water

Answer 54

Australia is the driest continent in the world and one of the most significant water users worldwide. As Australia’s population increases, so will the need for food and water. The amount of water that Australia needs is expected to double by 2050.
A significant number of crops grown in Australia use irrigated water. Irrigation is the term used to describe the
process of adding water to crops or plants.

Question 55

the risks associated with water

Answer 55

Salinity causes a range of environmental problems, including:
* decreased biodiversity by endangering wildlife, e.g. loss of habitat, food and water;
* disturbed ecosystems, i.e. salt contamination in waterways and freshwater habitats, e.g. wetlands become
more acidic;
* land degradation, e.g. erosion;
* damage to infrastructure, e.g. buildings, roads, and underground pipelines and grassy areas like sporting
fields;
* poor water quality, e.g. drinking water supplies and irrigation water; and
* reduced quality and quantity of crop yields.

Question 56

choice of crops for farming

Answer 56

The increasing duration and intensity of droughts, floods, storms, and rising temperatures in Australia mean that
food production levels could decrease. Changing the type of crops grown or the animals raised so they are more
sustainable may help Australian farmers continue providing national and overseas markets with good quality food
in sufficient quantities.
Australia’s most common food crops include barley, canola, fruits, lentils, nuts, oats, sugar cane, vegetables,
wheat, and wine grapes. Research on these crops aims to increase their ability to grow in changing climate and
weather conditions, produce bigger and better quality yields, and support environmental sustainability.
options include, sugarcane, saltbush, seaweed

Question 57

choice of animals

Answer 57

On average, Australians consume 34 kg of beef and 13 kg of lamb annually. Cattle and sheep farming occupies a significant proportion of the land in Australia; for this reason, it is important they use sustainable methods to rear their livestock. Australians are also beginning to farm other animals to increase the supply of protein for human
consumption that have minimal environmental impact.
choices include, aus white meat sheep, alpacas, emus, insect farming in aus

Question 58

biosecurity

Answer 58

is the term used to describe measures taken to prevent the introduction, establishment or spread of
harmful organisms that transmit disease to animals and plants in a given area.

Question 59

the risks associated with biosecurity

Answer 59

Introducing invasive species can alter an ecosystem so much that it threatens the survival of many native animals,
plants, and other organisms. Invasive species could not only significantly harm the biodiversity of Australia’s
species but also decimate the agricultural industry.

Question 60

innovation and tech in primary production

Answer 60

Technological advancements are revolutionising the primary food production, offering a more efficient, sustainable,
and safe approach to food production. From IoT applications, big data analysis, AI interventions, to automation,
these innovations promise to reshape the landscape of food production, bolstering efficiency, reducing waste, and ensuring safety.

Question 61

energy consumption

Answer 61

Energy consumption plays a significant role in the food system. Various forms of energy, such as electricity, gas and fuel, are used throughout different stages of food production and distribution. Using energy unwisely can have significant negative impacts. Relying on non-renewable energy sources for electricity contributes to increased greenhouse gas emissions and increases the impact of climate change. Similarly, using up fossil fuels for transportation and other processes results increased carbon emissions and air pollution
innovative solutions include, use of renewable energy, energy efficient tech, waste to energy solutions

Question 62

water consumption

Answer 62

Water consumption is another thing that plays a significant role in the food system. Using water unwisely can have serious consequences.
To conserve water, technological and innovative practices are being adopted:
water recycling and reuse, water efficient equipment and processes

Question 63

food packaging

Question 64

food packaging - food processing and manufacturing

Answer 64

This industry could impact the type of food packaging used in Australia by developing and promoting the use of environmentally sustainable food packaging.
- bioplastic packaging
- edible packaging
- insulated packaging from low grade wool
- plant based packaging

Question 65

food packaging - food retail and services

Answer 65

The food retail and service industries include businesses where people acquire food. Many food retailers are beginning to use more sustainable packaging to reduce the environmental impact of food packaging.
- Plastic Cutlery, Cups, and Plates Made with Recycled and Certified Sustainable Fibre
- Home Compostable Food Packaging

Question 66

food transportation

Answer 66

Transportation plays a significant role in global environmental degradation. It contributes to climate change through the emission of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2), from burning fossil fuels. Additionally, transportation infrastructure such as roads and airports can lead to habitat destruction and wildlife displacement. Noise and air pollution from vehicles impact both human health and local ecosystems. Water resources also suffer from oil spills and waste from ships.
Transporting food involves moving it from where it was produced to where it will be consumed. Food from farms is often transported to various factories, where it is made into new food products and packaged. It then moves to distribution centres and retail outlets before being transported by the consumer to their home.

Question 67

food transportation - food processing and manufacturing

Answer 67

• electric trucks
• modifying food packages

Question 68

food transportation- food retail and service

Answer 68

• grocery and meal-kit delivery services
• sourcing local food
• using drones and electric bikes to deliver fast food meals

Question 69

food marketing

Answer 69

Marketing, often referred to as advertising, has a significant impact on the environment. Firstly, traditional forms of marketing such as print media contribute to deforestation and waste, while also using energy and resources in their production and distribution. Secondly, marketing plays a substantial role in driving consumerism. By creating demand for new products, it encourages overconsumption, leading to increased production, resource use, and waste.
marketing can also contribute to environmental sustainability. It can raise awareness about environmental issues, promote sustainable products and behaviours, and drive consumer demand towards more sustainable options.
- QR codes, certification logos , sustainable packaging, dyes and inks

Question 70

food consumption

Answer 70

Our food consumption behaviours play an important role in environmental sustainability. The types of food we choose to eat, where we source it from, how it’s packaged, and how we manage waste all contribute to the environmental footprint of our consumption patterns.
- food choices and eniornmental impact
- sustainable packaging and bulk purchasing, decreasing shopping trips, sourcing of food

Question 71

food disposal/recycling/repurposing

Answer 71

Food disposal or recycling and repurposing play a crucial role in environmental sustainability. These practices offer significant opportunities for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving resources, and maintaining the health of our ecosystems.

Question 71

environmental issues associated with food disposal in landfill

Answer 71

• Transporting waste to landfill sites consumes fuel and releases additional carbon dioxide and pollutants into the environment.
• High amounts of methane gas, more toxic and potent than carbon dioxide, are released from food waste in a landfill, contributing significantly to global warming.
• Developing landfill sites requires clearing land, leading to habitat loss, land degradation, and reduced biodiversity.
• Landfills occupy space that could serve other community purposes or be left as areas for vegetation and wildlife.
• Rainwater passing through landfill material forms a thick liquid called leachate, which can contaminate nearby groundwater and soils.
• Resources used in food production, such as energy, fertilisers, pesticides, and water, are wasted when food ends up in a landfill.

Question 72

food disposal - food processing and manufacturing

Answer 72

• automation + robotics
• precision machinary
• waste to energy tech
• upcycling food waste

Question 73

food disposal - food retail

Answer 73

• inventory management software
• advanced barcoding systems
• food repurposing
• food waste apps

Question 74

food disposal - food service

Answer 74

• Meal Planning and Inventory Management Software
• Food Donation Programs
• Smart Waste Tracking Systems

Question 75

food disposal - consumption

Answer 75

• Repurposing and Reducing Food Waste through Home Composting
• Use leftovers creatively
• Make stocks and broths
• Freeze or can excess food
• Get creative with ingredients
• Utilise online platforms and apps:
• Proper storage and organisation
• meal planning
• portion control
• use by and best before dates
• repurposing leftovers
• smart fridges and appliances

Question 76

food equity

Answer 76

Equality refers to everyone having access to the same resources.
In a food system where equity exists, everyone gets the food they need based on their own situation and needs.
This food system recognises that not all people are the same and that various factors, such as accommodation, culture, education, income, location, and even personal beliefs and values, mean that different people have different food needs. Food equity is achieved when everyone has access to quality, affordable, nutritious foods that
meet their individual needs.

Question 77

what are the six pillars of food soveriegnty

Answer 77

• focus on food for people
• building knowledge and skills
• localising food systems
• valuing food providers
• building food soveriegnty networks
• working with nature

Question 78

sustainable concerns

Answer 78

People are becoming more concerned about how food production affects the environment. Issues like
deforestation, water scarcity and pollution, soil degradation, and food waste all contribute to environmental harm
and climate change. Addressing

Question 79

lab grown meat

Answer 79

Innovations are being made in response to sustainability and ethical concerns
surrounding traditional animal farming practices. Lab-grown meat, also known as cultured meat, is
emerging as a viable alternative to conventional meat production.

Question 80

insects as protein

Answer 80

More people are looking at insects like crickets and mealworms as a source of protein.
Insect farming uses less land, water, and feed compared to traditional livestock farming. Plus, insects
produce fewer greenhouse gases. This has led to new food products like protein bars, powders, and even
burgers made from insects.

Question 81

farmed fish

Answer 81

Aquafarming is a way to raise fish, shellfish, and plants in controlled environments. This
practice can help protect wild fish populations and marine ecosystems from overfishing. Also, using new
types of fish feed made from plants, insects, or algae can help reduce the environmental impact of
aquafarming.

Question 82

food waste

Answer 82

Companies are turning food waste into new, edible products. For instance, some companies
make soup or chips from ‘ugly’ vegetables that grocery stores won’t sell, while others use spent grains from
beer production to make granola bars or cookies.

Question 83

use of robotics and automation in production

Answer 83

This is another technology that’s transforming food production. Robots are now used for various tasks, including
planting, harvesting, and packing. They can work round the clock, thereby increasing productivity. Moreover, they
can perform tasks with a high level of precision, reducing waste.

Question 84

use of vertical farming in production

Answer 84

Vertical farms stack plants
vertically to maximise production in a limited space and use LED lights to provide the optimal light spectrum for plant growth.

Question 85

genetic engernerring

Answer 85

involves altering the DNA of an organism in a way that does not occur naturally. These techniques allow
scientists to add, delete, or change specific traits to improve the organism’s characteristics or performance.

Question 86

packaging concerns

Answer 86

• Packaging materials, particularly plastics and polystyrene, produce hazardous gases and chemicals when degrading in landfill sites. These toxic emissions can contribute to the greenhouse effect, potentially contaminating groundwater and polluting the soil, posing health risks to ecosystems and humans.
• Burning of waste packaging (burning waste at high temperatures) can lead to the release of greenhouse gases and other toxic pollutants into the atmosphere.
• Discarded food packaging often finds its way into oceans and waterways, posing a significant threat to marine life and promoting the growth of harmful algae blooms.
• The production of packaging materials requires significant amounts of water, a precious resource in a country like Australia, where water scarcity is a significant concern.
• Recyclable plastic dinnerware, due to its light weight and small size, often ends up in landfill.

Question 87

Various environmental issues are associated with food transportation: -

Answer 87

• Crude oil used in the production of fuel is extracted from the Earth and underground supplies at sea.
• Diesel and petrol are derived from fossil fuels and non-renewable resources such as crude oil.
• Food is usually transported in massive vehicles; the bigger and heavier the transport vehicle, the more emissions are released.
• Ships that spill crude oil at sea can impact the health of marine life by poisoning and suffocating animals and affecting their buoyancy and waterproofing abilities.
• Oil spills at sea can also release toxic chemicals into the ocean that impact the quality of food and poison the ecosystems in the area.

Question 88

causes of food insecurity

Answer 88

• lack of resources (including finance and transport)
• lack of access to nutritious food at affordable prices
• lack of access to food due to geographical isolation
• lack of motivation or knowledge about a nutritious diet

Question 89

3 levels of food security

Answer 89

• secure
• insecure but without hunger - where there may be anxiety or uncertainty about access to food or inappropriate use of food but regular consumption of food occurs
• insecure with hunger - where meals are often missed or inadequate