Anomaly or Augury? Global Food Prices Since 2007

Volume 46 Number 6
Published: November 15, 2015
https://doi.org/10.1111/1759-5436.12183
This article reviews the dynamics of global food prices since the food crisis of2007–08, the extent to which international prices have influenced national prices and poverty and wellbeing outcomes, and considers whether this exceptional period represents an anomaly or likely signals future episodes of food price volatility. It finds that although some factors that contributed to recent events have eased considerably, some significant drivers remain structural threats to future food security. There is little reason to be confident that recent reductions in food prices and volatilities augur well for the food security or wellbeing of those living on low and precarious incomes in the future.

Keywords:

  • Food security
  • food prices
From Issue: Vol. 46 No. 6 (2015) | Life in a Time of Food Price Volatility