INEQUALITIES IN FOOD PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

Question 1

Food Inequalities arise from

Answer 1

The growing global population, which is increasing by over 80 million people each year, puts significant pressure on the global food production system to meet the increasing demand for food

Question 2

changes in dietary preferences

Answer 2

In addition, changes in dietary preferences, particularly in middle- and high-income countries, contribute to inequalities in food production
As people’s incomes rise, there is a shift from grain-based diets to meat- and dairy-based diets, which require more resources and have a higher environmental impact

Question 3

increase in world food prices

Answer 3

Since the early 2000s there has been a steady increase in world food prices
While there has also been an increase in food production during this period, the rise in demand for food has outpaced production
This imbalance has contributed to inequalities in food availability and affordability, particularly for vulnerable populations

Question 4

access to resources and technology

Answer 4

Inequalities also exist in access to resources and technology for food production
For example, small-scale farmers, particularly in developing countries, often face challenges in accessing good quality seeds, fertilisers, and employing modern agricultural practices
This limits their productivity and exacerbates disparities in food production

Question 5

Fluctuations in oil prices

Answer 5

Higher oil prices lead to increased costs in transportation, which can affect the availability and affordability of food, especially in remote or underprivileged regions

Question 6

Socioeconomic factors

Answer 6

income inequality and limited access to education and healthcare, also contribute to inequalities in food production and distribution
Specifically, these factors affect individuals’ purchasing power, nutritional status, and overall food security

Question 7

Government policies and trade agreements

Answer 7

Government policies and trade agreements can either support or hinder equitable food production and distribution
Subsidies, tariffs, and regulations can impact the availability and affordability of food, influencing the dynamics of global food systems and exacerbating inequalities

Question 8

Climate change and natural disasters

Answer 8

Finally, climate change and natural disasters disproportionately affect vulnerable populations and disrupt food production
Extreme weather events, water scarcity, and shifting climatic patterns pose challenges for farmers, particularly in developing countries, leading to food insecurity and unequal access to nutritious food