Higher income, urbanisation, demographic shifts,
improved transportation and consumer perceptions
regarding safety and quality mean global food
consumption is changing
Changes in food consumption =
more trade and changes in
composition of world agriculture
trade
Prices between developed
and developing countries
varies
As developing
countries get
higher income
Meat demand increases
Increased import
of livestock feed
Diet diversification + higher
demand for better quality labour
saving products
Increased imports of high
value processed food
products
Consumer groups in developed
countries brought animal welfare
and organic production of food to
attention
As a result, public and private
sectors now have mandatory quality
control, management and assurance
schemes (However don't always
work)
Fasted growing sector of food trade is
process consumer goods
Pastry, prepared foods and chocolate
have grown in world trade by nearly
10% per year over past 15yrs
Accounts for more than
$15 billion in world trade -
exceeds world wheat trade
Wheat, corn, coffee and
cocoa beans account for
most trade in bulk
commodities
Per capita consumption of
coffee, milk, eggs and red
meat has declined
significantly during past 30 yrs
Consumption of cheese,
soft drinks, poultry
increased
Ability to buy food is
a primary factor in
GFC
Consumers in high-income
countries such as US spend large
share of food budget on meat
Low income such as
Kenya - cereal is
more predominant
As income levels rise - more diverse diet
Better trade and
transport improved food
availability and quality
Lifestyle changes relating
to urbanisation change
2030 - 6/10 people will
live in an urban area
Fast paced more affluent
dual income households
Higher value more
processed food with
smaller prep time
Once basic needs are met
demand for good quality
increases
Increased hugely in developed
countries in recent yrs as consumers
develop a conscience and media
scrutiny highlights issues
Led to many
more organic
products
available in
supermarkets