Quality changes in the world food system Cover Image

Zmiany jakościowe w światowym systemie żywnościowym
Quality changes in the world food system

Author(s): Grzegorz Dybowski
Subject(s): Supranational / Global Economy, Agriculture
Published by: Instytut Zachodni im. Zygmunta Wojciechowskiego
Keywords: food system; transformation of agriculture; urbanization; rural areas

Summary/Abstract: The article is aimed at identification of quality changes in global food system evoked by structural changes to the world economy. The basic and simultaneously the primary goal of the world food system should be assuring proper nutrition for the global population. This is understood as delivery of not only adequate energy and protein, but also a diet balanced from the viewpoint of nutrients which guarantee proper physical and mental development. Despite the big progress achieved, still over 815 million people are hungry and more than 30 per cent of the world population face malnutrition or have improper diet. The increase of the global population and incomes, especially in developing countries, will create additional demand for food followed by changes in the previous diet. This will be accompanied by a limited access of agriculture to natural resources and by adverse climate changes. Structural changes in the world economy have a strong impact on the global food system. In the past, transition from agriculture-based economy to industry and then service-based economy was supported by the industrialization process. In the coming decades the potential of industrialization will be much weaker whereas the pace of urbanization will exceed the dynamic of growth in industry and service sectors. Quality changes in the world food system will call for transformation of both agriculture and rural areas and creation of new urban-rural relationships. A new, territorial approach towards food system, will support inclusive development of cities and their rural environment as well as sustainable economy on these areas. The method of indirect observations was used in the analysis which was based on relevant information gathered earlier by competent institutions. Data bases of the FAO, the Human Development Programme and the World Food Programme were analysed.

  • Issue Year: 366/2018
  • Issue No: 01
  • Page Range: 131-146
  • Page Count: 16
  • Language: English, Polish