Biotech Updates

USDA ERS Report: Food Security Estimated to Improve in 2012

July 20, 2012

Food security is projected to improve slightly in 2012, according to USDA Economic Research Service report titled International Food Security Assessment, 2012-2022. The report defines food-insecure people as those consuming less than the nutritional target of roughly 2,000 calories per day per person. The assumption of increase in food security is based on the 12 million-decrease in the number of food-insecure individuals in 76 countries from 2011 to 2012.

The report also estimates that the percentage of the population that is food insecure will decline from 24% in 2012 to 21% in 2022. However, the number of food-insecure people might increase by 37 million. Regionally, food insecurity is projected to stay most severe in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Download a copy of the report at http://www.ers.usda.gov/publications/gfa-food-security-assessment-situation-and-outlook/gfa23.aspx.