Iran's lawmakers pressured to implement subsidies cuts on water, flour, bread, wheat, rice, oil, milk, sugar, fuel and postal and transportation services. Subsidies are to be replaced with cash handouts to lower-income half of population. And: Plan, which would hit hardest at urban middle class, could profoundly destabilize government of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, but could help wean Iran from its dependence on foreign gasoline and insulate economy from new sanctions - possible if Iran continues to defy Western pressure over its nuclear program (click 'See also').

By Roshanak Taghavi

The Christian Science Monitor 2009-12-03

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Hospital funds expansion of chef's healthy food lessons

As Jamie Oliver wraps up filming 'Food Revolution,' a show that promotes healthy eating, hospital donates $80,000 to fund assessment and overhaul of menus of West Virginia county's 28 public schools. Hospital also donates $50,000 to keep chef's teaching kitchen open. And: Naked Chef isn't a diet cop; he's about scratch cooking, which means avoiding processed and fast food, learning pride of ownership, encouraging sparks of creativity and finding reasons to gather family and friends in one place (click 'See also').

By Veronica Nett

The Charleston Gazette (WV) 2009-11-21

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Jobless rate now 10.2 percent, under-employed reaches 17.5 percent

Nation's jobless rate rises to 10.2 percent in October, highest since April 1983. Feds' broader measure of unemployment rose to 17.5 percent. That gauge of labor under-use, known as 'U-6' for its Labor Department classification, accounts for people who have stopped looking for work or who can't find full-time jobs. And: To be eligible for food stamps, household income must be below 130 percent of official poverty line - annual take-home pay of $22,000 for a family of four - with assets under $2,000 (click 'See also').

By Sudeep Reddy and Phil Izzo

The Wall Street Journal. (may require subscription) 2009-11-06

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Brazil becomes major exporter; deforestation continues

Despite bad roads, infrastructure lack, Brazil, with efficient management, technology, has become biggest exporter of beef, chicken, orange juice, green coffee, sugar, ethanol, the soybean complex of beans, meal and oil, and fourth biggest exporter of corn and pork. Amazon deforestation, however, continues. Former Brazilian agriculture minister, now agribusiness consultant, holds out hope of slowing rate with better monitoring, market-led initiatives. And: Brazil home to quarter of world's tropical forests. They sequester carbon for years and are a primary producer of oxygen (click 'See also').

By Jonathan Wheatley

Financial Times (London) 2009-11-04

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Senate's plan to reward diet, exercise choices criticized

Rewarding employees for losing weight, exercising undercuts reformists' anti-bias vow for those with pre-existing medical conditions and could mean higher insurance rates for less-fit Americans, critics of Senate plan say. Safeway grocery chain uses reduced car insurance premiums for good drivers as model. If employees pass annual test that measures obesity, blood pressure, cholesterol and smoking, they get 20 percent discount on insurance cost. And: Seventy percent of health-care costs are direct result of behavior; 74 percent of all costs caused by heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, writes Safeway head (click 'See also').

By Janet Hook

Los Angeles Times 2009-11-04

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City, with Great Lakes tap, may offer discount water for jobs

At a time when regions from metro Atlanta to American southwest face acute water shortages, Milwaukee plans to offer discounted water to new companies that create jobs. Milwaukee Water Works utility operates at only a third of its capacity, draws off Great Lakes, which have a fifth of planet's surface supply of freshwater. And: EPA bid to cut ship emissions sets off furious battle in Great Lakes region beset by economic woes (click 'See also').

By John Schmid

Journal Sentinel (Milwaukee, WI) 2009-11-02

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Falling milk prices challenge dairy farmers in Europe, U.S.

European dairy farmers, angry over falling milk prices, pour milk on streets of Brussels, aim udder streams at police officers. And: New breeding technology that allows mostly female calves now adding tens of thousands to U.S. milking herds as milk prices tumble below production costs (click 'See also'). In attempt to raise milk prices, dairy industry group has paid farmers to send 230,000 cows to slaughter this year. Economists expect milk prices to recover gradually. Fertility institute is studying sex choice technique for use in people.

By Stephen Castle

The New York Times 2009-10-05

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Bad teeth signify poverty, result in diet of soft, processed foods

Dentists failing to treat teeth of 21 million enrolled in public programs (mostly Medicaid) and 130 million - 43 percent of population - without any dental coverage. But letting one part of body rot can create havoc elsewhere, as shown by 12-year-old who died after tooth abscess bacteria traveled to brain. Expert says oral health crucial to eating, speaking, social life, job. And: Missing or rotten teeth dictates diet of soft processed foods - bad choices for those with diabetes (click 'See also').

By June Thomas

Slate Magazine 2009-10-01

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Jobless rate reaches 9.8 percent; at school, algebra suffers

More than 15 million people in U.S. now unemployed, and more are working part-time jobs for less pay, or have given up looking for work. New Jersey resident, a year after losing job, has $800 left in savings account, six more weeks of $379 unemployment checks. She's paring expenses - she tries to eat less. And: Teachers note that impoverished students are distracted from learning; 'It's hard to focus on algebra when you're hungry,' says advocate (click 'See also').

By Jack Healy

The New York Times 2009-10-02

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Citing state's obesity bill, mayor wants fee from stores that sell sugary drinks

San Francisco mayor plans bill that would charge fee to retailers that sell sugary beverages. Motivation is UCLA study that links soda, obesity in California. Adults who drink at least one soft drink daily are 27 percent more likely to be obese than those who don't, researchers say, and soda consumption is fueling state's $41 billion annual obesity bill. San Francisco would be first city to levy fee on soda if, as expected, it is approved. And: Tax of penny per ounce on such drinks would raise $14.9 billion in its first year (click 'See also').

By Heather Knight

San Francisco Chronicle 2009-09-18

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Medicaid needs policy guidelines on diet-related disease care

Medicaid should hasten policy rules on obesity-related services for children, and consider need for guidance on similar services for adults, GAO says in report requested by Sen. Max Baucus. Many children, adults in Medicaid program are obese and need preventive services. And: Last year, Medicare spent $7 billion on diet-related disease drugs; obesity-related medical treatments cost $147 billion in 2008 (click 'See also').

American Hospital Association 2009-09-14

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Make obesity prevention national priority, researchers urge

With more than 92 percent of Americans at risk for heart disease, potential exists to reverse ominous trends if obesity prevention becomes national priority and is folded into schools, workplaces, researchers write. Looming problems are blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, all time bombs, since 32 percent of U.S. children are now overweight or obese. Once they reach adulthood, their heart-disease risk could cause national numbers to explode. Authors call for physicians to be reimbursed for prevention measures, including weight-loss plans. And: Real source of obesity epidemic is federal corn subsidies (click 'See also').

By Jeffrey Kluger

Time magazine 2009-09-14

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Enlightened self interest fuels responsibility revolution

New spending patterns herald rise of the enlightened citizen consumer - and beginnings of responsibility revolution. In U.S., poll shows 6 in 10 have bought organic produce since January, 82 percent supported local businesses, nearly 40 percent bought something because they liked values of company. Companies have adjusted - Mars and Cadbury plan to increase amount of cacao harvested from sustainable sources because it is good for environment and will relieve potential shortages. In turn, social responsibility attracts investment capital and customer loyalty, creating a virtuous circle.

By Richard Stengel

Time magazine 2009-09-10

Likely food-borne illness leaves uninsured woman with $29,000 bill

Case of e.coli, likely from cheeseburger at diner, leaves woman with $29,000 in medical bills. She fell ill two weeks shy of insurance coverage after getting new job that paid $33,000 salary. Hospital list prices, like those that victim was charged, don't match what private or government insurance pays. Only uninsured are billed those amounts.

By Jim Dwyer

The New York Times 2009-09-13

Investor: Rebuild food economy with 'Slow Money'

Investor launches Slow Money Alliance to bring tenets of Slow Food movement to finance. He want to create 'restorative economy' that rebuilds food, ecological infrastructure from seed companies to farms to markets, restaurants. Group explores investments that re-circulate within local economy, minimize environmental impact, stress diversity over monoculture, earn decent returns. And: Air, water, soil are new currencies, says Woody Tasch in his book on slow investing (click 'See also')

By Judith D. Schwartz

Time magazine 2009-09-11

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Food stamp participation reaches record as unemployment climbs

More than 35 million Americans received food stamps in June, up 22 percent from June 2008. Food stamp program, with average benefit of $133.12 per person, aids one in nine Americans and has grown with nation's unemployment rate. And: Labor Department says unemployment reached 9.7 percent in August, but other indicators show 16.8 percent (click 'See also').

By Roberta Rampton and Chuck Abbott

Reuters 2009-09-03

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Opinion: Comfort in farmer's habit of naming each cow

Growing up on a diverse, chaotic family farm offered decent, varied lives for us and animals. Insipid, efficient food assembly lines produce unhealthy cheap food, mishandle waste and overuse antibiotics in ways that harm us. And it has no soul. Reassurance is in farmer who runs family dairy of 225 Jersey cows so efficiently that it can still compete with factory dairies of 20,000 cows. He names all his cows; they are family friends as well as economic assets. 'When I lose a cow, it bothers me. I kick myself.'

By Nicholas D. Kristof

The New York Times 2009-08-23

Food processors' waste taints water, environment

In west Michigan, untreated wastewater from processors has tainted drinking water, streams, killing aquatic life and nearby trees. State officials have known of polluting for 10 years; residents say they're bearing costs - stench, orange fingernails, useless gardens, failed businesses, ruined plumbing, fear of eventual ills from tap water. Officials say there's no acute health threat. Review found probes have dragged out for years. Companies denied responsibility, failed to meet cleanup deadlines, violated law with leaks, spills, illegal dumping of fruit waste. Agriculture made more than $63 billion last year; food processing firms employ thousands. (Click 'See also' for part 2.)

By Tina Lam

Detroit Free Press 2009-08-09

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Re-imagining Detroit's vacant lots as agrarian paradise

Detroit, with its 103,000 vacant lots, fertile soil, ample water, willing labor and desperation for decent food, can redefine urban economics. It can move away from factory-town model to economically diverse, self-sufficient, rural/urban community sustained by agriculture. All that's needed is political and community will. And: City may revise codes to allow for large-scale agriculture farms, commercial bee farms (click 'See also').

By Mark Dowie

Guernica 2009-08-01

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NJ schools get extra funds for signing poor children up for lunch

New Jersey public schools scramble to sign poor students up for free or reduced-price lunch; new funding formula matches lunch participation with eligibility for additional $5,000 per student in supplemental tutoring. Idea is that children who qualify for free meals have greater educational needs overall. And: In June, unemployment figures reached 14.3 percent in Newark and 18.4 percent in Trenton (click 'See also').

By Ashley Milne-Tyte

Marketplace 2009-08-18

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Taking political responsibility for cutting obesity rates

Anyone who smoked in an elementary-school hallway today would be thrown out. But if you served an obesity-inducing, federally financed meal to kindergarten student, you would fit right in. Parents are working longer, and eating takeout; real price of fruits, vegetables has risen 40-plus percent in 30 years; soda prices have fallen 33 percent. Solutions to obesity epidemic involve civic - even political - responsibility. They depend on the kind of collective action that helped cut smoking rates nearly in half.

By David Leonhardt

The New York Times 2009-08-16

Opinion: Obesity epidemic demands prime-time address, slice in subsidies

When a quarter of your population has diabetes or is at risk, that screams for prime-time address. Obama has made no dent in farm subsidies that help agribusiness overproduce worthless calories, help Coke, Pepsi, McDonalds rank among most profitable companies for trash food and drinks. Capitol Hill must cut fat of subsidies, impose taxes on trash food producers, support cities and suburbs in redesigning streets, parks to support people who want to cycle or go out for a run and children who want to play outside.

By Derrick Z. Jackson

The Boston Globe 2009-08-01

In scramble for funds, Illinois taxes candy, soda - with exceptions

In scramble for funds, Illinois demotes candy, soft drinks from tax-free food group. But lawmakers carved gaping exception - sweets containing flour (Twizzlers, Butterfinger Stixx) aren't legally deemed to be candy. Critic says tax logic is becoming increasingly inconsistent - in New York, Ovaltine gets sales-tax exemption but not Tang. Iowa officials were forced by public protests to rescind decision that exempted pumpkins sold for pies but not those sold for jack-o'-lanterns. And: Test your knowledge of what USDA considers junk food in schools (click 'See also').

By Ameet Sachdev and Bob Secter

Chicago Tribune 2009-08-02

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Diet-related disease prevention enters debate on health care

In Congress, debate simmers over whether health care legislation should include preventive measures - farmers' markets, sidewalks, bike paths - to curb diet-related disease. Draft Senate bill would provide up to $10 billion annually for such community interventions; a 2008 report suggested that for $10 a person, U.S. could save $16 billion annually within five years in lower health care costs. Other lawmakers see ideas as wasteful spending.

By Kristina Sherry

Chicago Tribune 2009-08-05

Anti-hot dog warnings included at hospital's new heart-failure clinic

Massachusetts hospital starts heart-failure clinic after learning its weak link for re-admissions is transition to home. It provides list of off-limits foods, adds phone system that relays patients' daily vital signs. But one patient didn't get the no-hot dog warning, was readmitted; nurse learned that sodium in baked beans, daily lunches from Meals on Wheels, plus hot dog (with 1,000 mg sodium), likely contributed.

By Ron Winslow and Jacob Goldstein

The Wall Street Journal. (may require subscription) 2009-07-28

Diet-related disease drives up health-care costs, study shows

Each obese patient cost health insurers, federal programs $1,429, or 42 percent more than normal-weight patient in 2006, study shows. Obesity-related medical treatments cost $147 billion in 2008, an 87 percent increase in past decade; rates of obesity, a major cause of diabetes, stroke, heart attacks, have more than doubled in last 30 years. Last year, Medicare spent $7 billion on diet-related disease drugs. A person is obese if body mass index is greater than 30 or weighs about 186 pounds for a person who is five feet, six inches tall. And: Calculate your BMI (click 'See also').

By Shannon Pettypiece

Bloomberg 2009-07-27

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As workers' diet-related health costs rise, employer mandates checkups

After years of steep costs for employees' diabetes, heart disease, Pennsylvania firm mandates free health testing and some workers get 'wake-up call,' make diet, lifestyle changes. In health reform efforts, chronic conditions like diabetes are major focus - they affect 130 million-plus Americans, account for three-quarters of total health spending.

By Anna Mathews

The Wall Street Journal. (may require subscription) 2009-07-08

Penny-pinching food choices fuel obesity epidemic

Number of Americans considered obese jumps 1.7 percent - almost 5.5 million people - in last year. Between 2003 and 2006, CDC measured no real growth in American obesity levels. The obese were less likely to have access to food, shelter and health care. Researchers speculate that increased stress of recession, combined with cost of healthy fresh foods (as compared to processed food), to blame.

By Kate Dailey

Newsweek/The Human Condition 2009-06-01

Opinion: Losing ability to tax 'entertainment' edibles

Idea that junk foods (those high in salt, fat and empty carbohydrates but low in nutrients) can escape tax category of entertainment products like cigarettes or booze gives unfair tax and price advantage to non-nutritious edibles over real food. Joining feds' scheme that harmonizes provincial and federal sales taxes means Ontario is giving up a cost-neutral way to shift behavior toward healthier choices, lower medical expenses. 'Pseudo-foods' account for about 31 per cent of supermarket sales.

By Wayne Roberts

Now Magaine (Toronto) 2009-04-08

Financial crisis adds more to ranks of global hungry

One in six - or one-sixth of the global population, now suffer from hunger and do not have access to enough food; 1 billion undernourished around the world, UN head says. Number has jumped by more than 100 million in last year. He calls for new world food order, urges more spending on agriculture.

By Stephanie Kennedy

ABC/BBC 2009-06-20

Putting food on the table between poverty, destitution

In stations between poverty, destitution, rural poor turn increasingly to 'food auctions,' which offer items that may be past sell-by dates. Others supplement diet with urban hunting, shooting squirrels and rabbits and eating them stewed, baked and grilled; in Detroit, retired truck driver has brisk business in raccoon carcasses, which he recommends marinating with vinegar and spices.

By Barbara Ehrenreich

The New York Times 2009-06-14

Difficulty of diet changes hinders prevention as reform goal

Despite broad consensus that it's cheaper to keep people healthy than to treat them for disease, rewards often fail to match costs of widespread testing and monitoring people with chronic diseases. Obstacles: Much of money spent on disease prevention goes for healthy people, and taking up regular exercise or eating healthier food is difficult, expert says.

By Janet Adamy

The Wall Street Journal. (may require subscription) 2009-06-12

Most food system power sources mum on climate change costs

Though major greenhouse gas emitters - utilities, coal, transportation, oil and gas industries - face clear, immediate risks from climate change, most offer minimal information to investors on how it could affect bottom line, report shows. And: Agricultural policy ripples through energy sector, energy policy affects farm sector, environmental policy affects farmers, food and energy processors, and all consumers of food, fuel (click 'See also').

By Suzanne Goldenberg

The Guardian (UK) 2009-06-03

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Opinion: Fighting malnutrition of poverty with fortified foods

Chronic malnutrition in West Africa worsened by high food prices, less money sent home from workers abroad. Lack of micronutrients - iron, zinc, vitamin A, iodine - last year may have caused extra 44 million children permanent impairment. Americans typically get micronutrients from fortified foods; same strategy possible in Africa. And: Adding iodide to salt could increase global IQ 1 billion points (click 'See also').

By Nicholas D. Kristof

The New York Times 2009-05-26

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Recession spurs garden plans, cutbacks on alcohol purchases

Nearly 25 percent of younger adults surveyed by Pew (click 'See also') say they plan to plant a 'recession garden' to cut their food bills, about double proportion of older adults who anticipate gardening to save money. Those under age 65 more than twice as likely as older adults to have cut down on spending on alcohol, cigarettes.

By Rich Morin and Paul Taylor

Pew Research Center 2009-05-14

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Food prices jump, led by eggs, beef, coffee, produce

In April, food prices rose the most in a year, Labor Department reports. Prices to producers of finished goods rose 0.3 percent last month, mostly result of 1.5 percent jump in food prices. Egg prices rose sharply; prices for beef, coffee, vegetables and fresh fruit also increased. And: Americans spend about 12.5 percent of budget on food; food prices linked to cost of ingredients, transportation, profit margins (click 'See also').

By Jack Healy

The New York Times 2009-05-14

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As recession deepens, dental care slips on priority list

Lost jobs, lost insurance, competing bills, plus fear of taking time off work and jeopardizing a job push dental care off priority list. But dentists warn against neglecting oral health; some accept payment plans, and clinics sometimes offer low-cost cleanings. And: Tooth problems make eating fresh produce difficult; diet heavy in soft, processed foods exacerbates serious ills, like diabetes (click 'See also').

By Mary Brophy Marcus

USA Today 2009-03-11

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Aftermath of immigration raid at Iowa slaughterhouse

After massive raid on kosher meatpacking plant in northeast Iowa, what was a center of commerce teeters toward collapse as plant sputters in bankruptcy, managers face prison time and shrinking town fights to stay solvent. Other ripples: Midwest livestock farmers who supplied the plant set back; nation's kosher meat supply was ruptured, federal immigration policy evolving to target employers, not employees.

By Antonio Olivo

Chicago Tribune 2009-05-12

Fast food chases low price, high volume

In teeth of a recession, fast-food eateries slashing prices in shift from higher profit margins to lower-price, higher-volume sales. That means more 99-cent meals and promotional giveaways. Industry insiders claim value and quality can coexist, but question whether "99 cents and quality" can meet on a bun.

By Jerry Hirsch

Los Angeles Times 2009-04-29

Opinion: White House garden as revolutionary emissions reduction agent

Michelle Obama's garden and her message of eating fresh-picked food is truly subversive: Change America's eating habits, improve health, cut emissions, change the world. Globally, agricultural sector releases more greenhouse gases (click 'See also') in growing, transporting, meat production than any activity except for constructing, heating, cooling buildings. Food sector should be priority in talks before Copenhagen meeting, where next round of emissions cuts will be decided.

By Mark Hertsgaard

The Nation. 2009-04-20

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Global slowdown means less work on U.S. farms

Domestic farm exports decline, led by sorghum, corn, wheat as foreign growing conditions improve and recession dampens demand. Fed economists say falloff for corn, wheat could lead to a loss of 45,000 jobs; if slowdown persists, prices for produce and farm incomes could decline sharply, leading to drop in farm real estate values. Declining exports likely to push pork, cattle, poultry production down.

By Clifford Krauss

The New York Times 2009-04-09

Loss of income, insurance undermine diet-related disease care

As obesity epidemic leads cases of diabetes, loss of income and health insurance pushes diabetics to cut back on health care, risking serious complications and higher emergency or hospital care costs, analysis shows. And: Maryland group targets churches, community groups, doctors' offices for message about prevention through diet, exercise and health screenings (click 'See also').

By Linda A. Johnson

The Associated Press; The Boston Globe 2009-04-13

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Tight credit could push food prices up, says UN

Tighter credit markets could push prices for corn, rice, other grains up by making it harder for farmers to expand production, warns UN food chief. And: $30 billion needed to help developing countries combat hunger by boosting farm production, says Jacques Diouf (click 'See also').

By Patrick Barta

The Wall Street Journal. (may require subscription) 2009-03-30

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Unemployment checks disqualify some Californians for food stamps

Some middle-class California families struck by layoffs, unforgiving economy find their unemployment checks plus property disqualify them for food stamps, other benefits. Los Angeles County reports increases in denials for emergency benefits.

By Molly Hennessy-Fiske

Los Angeles Times 2009-03-26

States urge schools to use stimulus for farm-to-school equipment

As interest grows in farm-to-school programs, Michigan, Wisconsin educators pounce on stimulus grants as chance to buy equipment to prep fresh fruits, vegetables. Both states will alert schools; Wisconsin will post list of types of equipment to consider, set up review panel that includes advocates experienced in farm-to-school programs and experts in fresh-food service equipment. And: Improving meal quality to meet dietary guidelines among goals of stimulus (click 'See aso').

By Diane Conners

Great Lakes Bulletin News Service 2009-03-19

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Michigan's salmonella response tab may reach $1 million

Peanut-product salmonella outbreak has already cost Michigan $425,000 and may reach $1 million. State does not receive federal reimbursement for food-recall expenses. Recall efforts include ensuring product removal from marketplace, collecting and testing products. CDC reports nine deaths, 691 salmonella infections. Recalls of items made with peanuts from Peanut Corporation of America's plants in Georgia and Texas: 3,488.

By Megha Satyanarayana

Detroit Free Press 2009-03-18

In trucking spat, Mexico assigns tariffs to U.S. goods

After feds decide to end program allowing some Mexican trucks on U.S. highways, Mexico retaliates with tariffs on products from 40 states. Products include sunflower seed, soy sauce, beer, onions, pears, apricots, cherries, strawberries, grapes, dried fruit mixes, lettuce, potatoes, peas, almonds, fruit and vegetable juices, prepared soups, wine, plastic kitchenware, refrigerators, coffee makers, and dishwashers (click 'See also').

By Ken Ellingwood

Los Angeles Times 2009-03-18

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As ranks of jobless increase, number of food stamp recipients rises

Unemployment rates in Michigan, South Carolina, Rhode Island, California exceed 10 percent; job losses over last six months surpass 3.3 million. Nation's unemployment rate in February was 8.1 percent. And: One-percentage-point increase in unemployment rate leads to 700,000 more food stamp recipients in first year; in longer run, this increase leads to 1.3 million more food stamp recipients, 2002 USDA research shows (click 'See also').

By Julianne Pepitone

CNN Money 2009-03-11

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Cutting expenses by growing a garden

To grow a garden, think like a seed, and make sure that little plants have water, nutrients, drainage and sunlight. Savings on food bill will grow as well: One tomato plant, for $3.50, can grow 20 pounds of fruit. Organic mixed greens are $2.79 a seed packet. One-half gram of arugula seeds costs 55 cents, enough for a crop that matures in 40 days and returns each spring. And: Shopping for seeds by catalog (click 'See also').

By Jane Kay

San Francisco Chronicle 2009-02-27

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Beyond health, cost and reach of salmonella outbreak

Hundreds of companies that bought Peanut Corporation of America products face financial troubles; feds say 666 illnesses and nine deaths linked to salmonella-tainted peanut products. Peanut Corporation of America sued by insurer. In court filings, insurer said it and PCA dispute whether circumstances of salmonella contamination void liability coverage.

By Lyndsey Layton

The Washington Post 2009-03-01

UN advice on averting 'environmental food crisis'

Inefficiency wastes half the food produced globally; one-third of grains fed to animals, which worsens poverty, environmental degradation, UN says. Double yields from organic farming a bright spot. Top tips: Regulate food prices, feed poor; back biofuels that don't compete with food, water; feed animals food waste and grains to humans; support small-scale farmers, resilient ecoagriculture; reduce wars, corruption and improve trade, infrastructure; limit global warming; publicize links between population, ecosystem.

Environment News Service 2009-02-17

Opinion: Splitting the check for fresh school lunches

ANP

Click 'See also' for youtube video.

New, fresh school lunch program should funded by Department of Education, USDA. It would bring long-term savings, benefits to society in areas of hunger, children's health and dietary habits, food safety, environmental preservation and energy conservation. And: Lobbyists outnumber scientists at recent Institute of Medicine school lunch meeting (click 'See also').

By Alice Waters

The New York Times 2009-02-19

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Economic slump hits agricultural extension services

Missouri governor restores two-thirds of proposed cuts to state's extension offices. Cuts to University of Missouri and Lincoln University programs will be made carefully to protect eligibility for federal matching funds. And: Governor's proposed cut to Michigan State University compounded by proposal to combine university's extension services, experimental stations and halve combined budget (click 'See also'). Extension services disseminate research, expertise on health, agriculture, wellness, food safety.

By Georgina Gustin

St. Louis Post-Dispatch 2009-02-12

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Essay: Fantasy loses some luster along with economy

Starbucks was great American backup plan, offering promise of simpler life: Serve, smile, achieve perfect cappuccino foam - and it came with health insurance. Company still huge, but as it struggles, its status as fantasy shrinks. Still, making 200 drinks an hour focuses the mind.

By Mary Schmich

Chicago Tribune 2009-02-06

Global warming means hunger, scientists say

Hunger likely as planet warms, researchers warn. Europe's 20003 heat wave is prediction: Grain yields fell by 20 to 36 percent; fruit harvests fell by 25 percent; crop ripening was hastened by 10 to 20 days; more water was used in agriculture. With older models, there were alternative foods, but in future there won't be, unless we rethink food supplies, says scientist. And: Expect civil unrest as masses leave uninhabitable areas (click 'See also').

By Maggie Fox

Reuters 2009-01-09

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Opinion: Build new food system to make current model obsolete

Despite raging wars, tanking economy, reform of food system can't wait. Obama's stimulus package should bolster infrastructure of local, regional food systems by providing grants to rebuild slaughterhouses, other missing facilities that sustainable-minded farmers need; reinvesting in school-cafeteria kitchens; and launching Teach for America-style program to lure new cooking school graduates to school cafeterias.

By Tom Philpott

Grist 2009-01-09

Opinion: Use science, not ideology to map food, farm policy

Our consumer economy runs on cheap food. Though USDA should support research on sustainable and organic agriculture, embracing science is crucial to long-term food and farm policy that keeps food safe, inexpensive without wrecking environment, say former Sen. George McGovern and Marshall Matz, of World Food Program.

By George McGovern and Marshall Matz

Chicago Tribune 2009-01-04

Boost sought for food stamp program

Anti-hunger groups lobby Obama for $24 billion over two years to boost food stamp benefits. Nutrition advocates say that handing money to hungry Americans as part of economic stimulus plan is charitable - and good for economy, since money will be spent on food.

CQ Politics 2009-01-06

Preventing bad teeth, cascading health woes of poverty

Beyond joblessness or underemployment, bad teeth mark those without insurance-paid dentist visits. Loss of teeth makes eating fresh produce difficult; diet heavy in soft, processed foods exacerbates serious ills, like diabetes. Such preventive measures save money in health care. And: Obama predicts 'sobering' unemployment figures (click 'See also').

By Malcolm Gladwell

The New Yorker 2005-08-29

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In New Jersey, a rise in requests for food stamps, other aid

As unemployment in New Jersey reaches 6.1 percent, state sees food stamp applications double and 40 percent rise in number of people seeking welfare over one year. State distributes about 58 percent of its food stamp allotment; cumbersome application process blamed. And: $22.5 million aid plan OK'd in December included $3 million for NJ food pantries (click 'See also').

By Susan K. Livio

The Star-Ledger (NJ) 2009-01-04

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In New Jersey, a rise in requests for food stamps, other aid

By Susan K. Livio

The Star-Ledger (NJ) 2009-01-04

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Debt-laden culinary center closes

Financial woes end hopes for Copia, a California wine and food institute funded in part by late winemaker Robert Mondavi. Financial stability for venture was elusive, and nonprofit never drew visitors needed to support it and its organic herb gardens, demonstration kitchen and restaurant named for Julia Child.

By Julia Moskin

The New York Times 2008-12-23

Italians asked to forgo pineapple, buy local

New York Daily News

Panettone is a traditional Italian holiday bread.

Italy's agriculture minister asks Italians to choose among the 4,500 foods of Italian origin - sausage-like zampone, cotechino or panettone, oranges, apples, kiwi - this holiday and to skip the items that travel 2,500 kilometers to market. Coffee, he says, is exception. And: panettone recipe (click 'See also').

By Colleen Barry

The Associated Press; International Herald Tribune 2008-12-18

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Tough times for farmers in Argentina's breadbasket

Global economic crisis causes steep drop in commodity prices, tough times for formerly prosperous Argentinian farmers. Dry weather, high supply costs, internal protests over proposed hike in export taxes cut into earnings. Argentinian government will provide loans to farmers, reduce export taxes on wheat and corn, but experts predict recession regardless.

By Juan Forero

The Washington Post 2008-12-15

Job worries change purchase patterns at Wal-Mart, Sam's Club

As Americans cut spending on everything in response to job worries, they stock up on frozen foods, food storage for home cooking, Wal-Mart head reports. In Sam's Clubs, he sees restaurateurs shopping several times a week, using yesterday's cash to buy food for tonight's business. And: Using coupons at checkout makes person behind you seem cheap, too (click 'See also').

By Nadine Elsibai

bloomberg.com 2008-12-14

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Promise of sustained prosperity dims as global trade slows

Slow U.S. economy stalls global trade, jobs. Freight lines that sailed full in summer now slashing prices as cargo traffic plummets and unsold goods pile up at ports - shipment of soybeans rotted for lack of shipping, insurance funding. Decline is affecting export boom that brought investment, trade to China, India and lifted millions out of poverty in recent years.

By Anthony Faiola and Ariana Eunjung Cha

The Washington Post 2008-12-11

Childhood obesity can indicate key nutrient deficiencies

Many poor, obese children are deficient in calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus - nutrients required for cell function, metabolism, study shows. Nearly half don't eat enough calories for growth. Childhood obesity a harbinger of diabetes, heart disease. In Texas, cost of obesity-related ills projected to rise from $3.3 billion in 2005 to $15.8 billion by 2025.

By Jan Jarvis

Star-Telegram (TX) 2008-11-18

Opinion: Repairing safety net for growing ranks of poor

As ranks of poor grow, Congress should accurately measure poverty considering changes in food costs, addition of costs for child care, health care, and regional differences in cost of living. It also must boost food stamps, modernize unemployment compensation system and strengthen governments to help those in need.

The editors

The New York Times 2008-11-26

Joblessness, high food prices, push food stamp use up

Number of Americans on food stamps nears record; visits to food pantries in D.C. area up 20 to 100 percent. Rising unemployment, rising food prices among causes - food-stamp benefit fell below cost of USDA's thriftiest diet for a family of four. In U.S., 11.9 million people went hungry at some point last year, including 700,000 children.

By Jane Black

The Washington Post 2008-11-25

Farm gleaning draws 40,000 for free produce

First day of Colorado farm 'gleaning' draws 40,000 people in 11,000 cars eager to scavenge for leftover potatoes, carrots, leeks after harvest. Some came prepared with sacks, wagons and barrels to celebrate getting something for free in bad economy. Farm couple, who are regulars at farmers' markets and host a fall festival for teaching about food sources, opened fields to public after hearing reports of food being stolen from churches.

By Allison Sherry

The Denver Post 2008-11-23

Childhood obesity may forecast prematurely disabled workforce

Arteries of obese children show harbinger of heart disease, study shows. Findings suggest potential for significant fraction of workforce disabled in their 30s, 40s, says cardiology expert. In U.S., about one third of children, teens overweight or obese, CDC says. And: In Huntington, W.Va., which leads nation in obesity, diabetes, heart disease and teeth loss, adults in their 30s suffering heart attacks, requiring open-heart surgery (click 'See also').

By Thomas H. Maugh II

Los Angeles Times 2008-11-12

See also

Layoffs accelerate, reducing priorities to food, shelter

Food, shelter, doctor visits are only priorities in consumer pocketbook lockdown as layoffs accelerate, so other industries suffer. And: One-percentage-point increase in unemployment rate leads to 700,000 more food stamp recipients in first year and eventually, 1.3 million more food stamp recipients, says 2002 USDA report (click 'See also').

By Aaron Smith

CNN Money 2008-11-07

See also

Obesity, lack of exercise cause soaring diabetes rates

New diabetes case rates soar nearly 90 percent over last 10 years, mostly from obesity, sedentary ways. And: In 2007, diabetes cost economy $174 billion for medical care, chronic complications (click 'See also'). Indirect costs of $58 billion came from absenteeism, reduced productivity, disease-related disability, and early death.

By Will Dunham

Reuters 2008-10-30

See also

Food crisis, poverty intensify with flagging economy

Global food crisis worsens with financial tumult, pulling incomes of additional 119 million people below poverty line; rich countries haven't made good on their $12.3 billion aid promise from summer. Prices for wheat, corn, soybean futures are down, lowering incentives for growing crops, and China's export tax on fertilizer leaves Africa's customers without.

By Ariana Eunjung Cha and Stephanie McCrummen

The Washington Post 2008-10-26

Widening economic crisis shrinks restaurant jobs

Restaurants, hotels cut 51,000 jobs over last three months as economic crisis deepens; deterioration of job market emerging as a driver of economic distress. And: Some economists expect unemployment to rise from current six percent to 10 percent; more than a million American families have had their homes foreclosed upon in past two years. In August, foreclosure filings reached record high. Number of Americans living in poverty has grown by more than five million since 2000.

By Neil Irwin and Michael S. Rosenwald

The Washington Post 2008-10-23

See also

Food price crisis forces poorest to eat less

Many in developing world - especially Philippines, Panama, Kenya - cut back on eating because of food costs in last year, new study shows. Food costs expected to begin decline as lower oil prices bring price of fertilizer, fuel lower.

BBC 2008-10-15

Dems consider expanding food stamp benefits

Expanded food stamps, extended jobless benefits and even tax rebate possible in legislation planned by Democrats after election. Barack Obama says he favors $25 billion for states, $25 billion for roads, bridges and infrastructure, and $65 billion for tax rebates paid for with oil profits tax.

By David Espo

The Associated Press; Newsday 2008-10-11

Couponing returns as household activity

As shoppers hunt for deals on groceries, casual restaurant meals, take-out food and other goods or services, coupon-clipping returns as household activity. Manufacturers have become more restrictive by imposing time limits and more purchase requirements for redemption.

By Emanuella Grinberg

CNN 2008-10-09

Economic crisis dwarfed by cost of forest loss

Annual forest loss cost of $2 trillion to $5 trillion dwarfs current economy problems, analyst says. As forests decline, nature stops providing free services- clean water and food for foraging, plus absorption of carbon dioxide. Heartening signs: developing trade in natural ecosystems (similar to carbon trade); attention of government, business officials.

By Richard Black

BBC 2008-10-10

Economic tumult pushes more onto food stamps

Food stamp use sharply up over last year - nearly one in 10 people participated in July (latest information available). Rise reflects broader national economic distress, 'pain on Main Street,' but doesn't yet reflect upheavals of last few months, including loss of 159,000 jobs in September.

By Michael E. Ruane

The Washington Post 2008-10-04

Higher prices, diminished services squeeze retirees

Economic downturn hits retirees. Those who rely mostly on Social Security may not suffer directly from stock market woes, but they face higher food, gas and health care prices and reductions in volunteer services like Meals on Wheels, trimmed because of fuel costs.

By John Leland and Louis Uchitelle

The New York Times 2008-09-23

Bad economy means better health, says economist

Bad economy means that as people worry more, they lose weight, drink less, exercise more, smoke less, and drive less, which then makes them feel better and reduces risks of diet-related disease and car crashes, says economist. Physician concurs, citing good health of laborers of decades past who ate rice and beans and couldn't afford cigarettes.

By Susan Brink

Los Angeles Times 2008-08-25

Shoppers lose, agribusiness wins on high grain prices

Processed food makers, meatpackers raise prices, shrink packages while ranchers thin herds to pass high grain, energy prices on to shoppers; 'sticker shock' in meat case predicted. Food service suppliers look to shorten contracts. Stock prices are up for fertilizer maker Mosaic, biotech (GMO) seed creator Monsanto and farm equipment supplier Deere & Co.

By Scott Kilman

The Wall Street Journal. (may require subscription) 2008-08-08

Projecting cost of near-universal obesity expected in U.S. by 2030

Obesity, already public health crisis, likely to cost $956.9 billion by 2030 if epidemic grows at current rate, researchers suggest. More than 86 percent of population projected to be overweight or obese by then, including 96 percent of black women and 91 percent of Mexican-American men. Analysis shows that, over time, heavy Americans become heavier.

By Natalie Wood-Wright

Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health 2008-07-28

Commodity yields abroad thwarted by politics, poverty

Politics, poverty hinder farmers' yields abroad. Farmhands in Ukraine scavenge junked equipment to keep their ancient tractors and combines running. And: Argentina senate votes against government's new tax on grain exports; the issue has paralyzed country's rich agriculture sector (click 'See also').

By Greg Burns, Alex Rodriguez and Oscar Avila

Chicago Tribune 2008-07-18

See also

A primer on factors behind food prices

Global food market is a messy amalgam of international markets for specific foods, each reacting independently and swayed by popularity of biofuels, growing middle class, dysfunctional trade and aid policies, weather, dwindling farmland, market speculation, energy prices and decline of the dollar.

By Lee Hudson Teslik

Council on Foreign Relations 2008-06-30

Rising waters, rising prices, shuttered processed food plants

Corn prices rise with floodwaters, sparking fears of more price hikes in food - especially meat - and fuel. Developing shortage likely to increase competition for corn among farmers, food companies, ethanol refiners, exporters. Flood-submerged roads, rail lines disrupt movement of goods across heartland. And: Iowa floods shut Quaker, Swiss Valley Farms and Penford Products plants (click 'See also').

By Jerry Hirsch and P.J. Huffstutter

Los Angeles Times 2008-06-16

See also

Rocketing food prices unleash new frugality

As milk tops $4 a gallon, a suddenly thrifty public switches from name brands to cheaper alternatives, and eats in instead of dining out. Wal-Mart reports stronger sales of peanut butter and spaghetti; Ruth's Chris and Mortons steakhouses, Domino's Pizza and Ruby Tuesday see orders drop. Sales of cheap beer are up, higher-priced imports are down.

By Michael Barbaro and Eric Dash

The New York Times 2008-04-27

A global food failure

Hunger slams world's poor, and even affluent feel the pinch. Food crisis is driven by the food chain: Higher wheat prices caused by lengthy Australian drought, less acreage in U.S. because of corn biofuel frenzy. Global food trade and subsidies that protect farmers and domestic food supplies have distorted real price of food. Says expert: 'The world has largely failed in its attempt to create an integrated food market.'

By Anthony Faiola

The Washington Post 2008-04-27

Imports up in Australia

Australians question food self-sufficiency as they note drought and a 50 percent rise in food imports over five years. Top products: Brazilian orange juice, Chinese apple juice, Vietnamese cashews, American grapes, Turkish dried grapes and both potatoes and prepared vegetables from New Zealand.

By Nigel Austin

Herald Sun (Australia) 2008-04-22

Food, feed price reports

Costs for food, fuel shove wholesale prices up higher than experts had predicted in March. Dairy farmer reports paying 42 percent more than a year ago for hay. Cropland once used for hay has been planted in California in grapes and almonds; in other states, it's corn for ethanol and wheat and soy. Click 'See also' for details on the Consumer Price Index; consumer prices rose 4 percent in March from the previous year.

By Maura Reynolds and Jerry Hirsch

Los Angeles Times 2008-04-16

See also

Hunger in Bangladesh

First food, then school, says a 13-year-old boy in line for rice, as food shortages worsen in Bangladesh, critics threaten protests and an official suggests switching to potatoes. Floods and tornado last year ruined three million tons of food crops and left millions homeless. Military-backed government opens 6,000 outlets to sell rice at half price, but is low on supplies, critic says. India has agreed to ship 400,000 tons of discounted rice there.

By Julhas Alam

The Associated Press; International Herald-Tribune 2008-04-11

Cheap food a memory

Ever-rising prices for corn-based livestock feed erode power of food stamps and cash; number seeking food at pantries and kitchens shot up an average of 20 percent in 2007. Food pantries are facing the same inflation, as well as declining donations. Food prices are forecast to rise 7.5 percent annually in each of next five years, says food bank oversight group.

By Tim Jones and Mary Ann Fergus

Chicago Tribune 2008-04-08

Bringing home the bacon

Transportation, processing, and packaging help push food prices up in year's first quarter, Farm Bureau reports. Flour has increased the most; bacon has stayed the same. Half-gallon of rBST-free milk was $3.30, organic was $3.63, non-labeled milk was $2.40. Though retail prices are up, farmers' share has fallen to 22 percent from about 33 percent of retail spending in the '70s, group says.

American Farm Bureau 2008-03-27

Rice price worries

USDA

Thailand, the world's largest rice exporter, has begun debate on whether to limit exports.

Vietnam, India, Cambodia and Egypt, to ensure domestic supply of rice, impose drastic restrictions on exports, driving prices up and igniting fears of social unrest among urban poor. The grain is staple for nearly half the world and its price has doubled in the last three months. Factors in price rise: growing demand in India, China; weather-related yield reduction, rice virus and fewer acres planted.

By Keith Bradsher

The New York Times 2008-03-30

Grain, the new green

As grain prices continue to rise, three food aid truck drivers killed, millers default on rice supply contracts, bandits steal rice and farmers keep watch over fields. Food riots reported in Egypt, Cameroon, and Burkina Faso. As incomes rise worldwide, food is a smaller portion of the family budget, so situation isn't as dire as it was in 1974. Farmers are making money, but not as much as a middleman with a warehouse.

By Daniel Ten Kate

The Christian Science Monitor 2008-03-27

Cutting back on food bill

As U.S. economy weakens, fuel prices rise and home values deteriorate, food and restaurant companies worry about their profits. Customers cut back, stay home. McDonald's bundles drinks with food; P.F. Chang offers budget menu. At supermarkets, sales of house brands increasing while sales of expensive wine declines.

By Brad Dorfman and Lisa Baertlein

Reuters 2008-03-17

See also

Pictures of food prices

BBC/FAO

World food prices, and trends, in pictures and graphics, from the BBC, including such tidbits as: 10,000 to 13,000 liters of water are needed to produce 1 kilogram of beef; and meat consumption in China in 1980 was 20kg, and in 2007, it had risen to 50kg.

BBC News 2008-03-10

Winds of change

Sudden collapse of West Coast salmon population likely linked to 2005 shift in jet stream that delayed water-stirring winds that stimulate fish food growth. Fisheries group predicts closures; sport and commercial salmon fishing off California and most of Oregon dropped to $61 million a year from 2001 through 2005, after an average of $103 million a year from 1979 through 2000.

By Jeff Barnard

The Associated Press; The Seattle Times 2008-03-03

Food prices continue rising, sowing unrest

UN spokesperson predicts high food prices until at least 2010. Hardest-hit countries: Zimbabwe, Eritrea, Haiti, Djibouti, the Gambia, Tajikistan, Togo, Chad, Benin, Burma, Cameroon, Niger, Senegal, Yemen and Cuba. In Afghanistan, wheat rose more than 60 percent in 2007; in Bangladesh, rice went up 70 percent; in El Salvador, food prices doubled in 18 months. Anger over food prices has led to riots in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Senegal and Morocco.

BBC News 2008-03-06

Debt-free in India

As elections approach, Indian government cancels small farmers' debts, announces its goal of becoming self-sufficient in food grains and pledges to hold food prices down. Critics say debt-forgiveness program is unfair to farmers with more land. Government also plans improvements on roads and rural infrastructure.

BBC News 2008-02-29

Farewell to cheap food

Bonfire created by subsidized biofuels demand, global economic growth and weather disasters means that cheap food for American food is gone, most likely forever, says former leading economist for ConAgra. Food manufacturers are transferring costs of high commodities to consumers; most shoppers, he says, can afford to pay.

By Peter Shinn

Brownfield Network 2008-02-25

Latte-less

Cutting back on restaurant meals and the daily Starbucks habit are ways we're reducing our discretionary spending and credit-card debt. Credit cards, once used for special purchases, now are used for groceries, gasoline and other everyday expenses (with rewards from some issuers), but delinquencies are rising.

By Robin Sidel, Sudeep Reddy and Jane J. Kim

The Wall Street Journal 2008-02-08

Winter's damage

Food shortages predicted for China as country endures one of its harshest winters in 50 years. Impact already severe on fresh vegetables and some fresh fruits, official says, and if storm moves north, effect on the year's grain crop will be "noticeable." Some towns enduring food shortages after heavy snowfall impedes deliveries.

BBC News 2008-01-31

See also

Claiming the future

Obesity-related diabetes epidemic now costs $174 billion annually through direct medical care, lost productivity, rising health-care premiums and co-payments, study shows. One million cases are diagnosed each year; trade group predicts that diet-related disease will handicap state, local economies, taking funds meant for education to care for patients instead.

By Liz Szabo

USA Today 2008-01-24

See also

Yields up

As protestors in Indonesia, Mexico and Italy decry high food prices, analysts call commodities "recession-proof" and say that lingering food shortages in Asia and biofuels craze will have lasting effect on stock prices. One fund, specializing in corn, grain and oil seed, reports a 23 per cent return in the last six months.

By Ellen Kelleher

The Financial Times 2008-01-25

Less than enough

Cooking oil joins grains (and grain-fed meats) in soaring prices, adding new desperation to lives of urban poor, rural landless and small and marginal farmers for whom it is key source of calories. UN agency reports food riots in Guinea, Mauritania, Mexico, Morocco, Senegal, Uzbekistan and Yemen. Experts say that U.S. shoppers haven't yet seen new prices at our supermarkets.

By Keith Bradsher

The New York Times 2008-01-19

Contraband cod

Prices for cod have skyrocketed, turning fish and chips into an occasional treat.

As "all the fish in the sea" comes to mean fewer and fewer, and conservation efforts increase, fish and chips becomes a delicacy and $1.6 billion black market grows in Europe. Sophisticated smuggling operation with mechanized fishing fleets practices destroy fish habitat and discard up to a third of the fish caught.

By Elisabeth Rosenthal

International Herald Tribune 2008-01-14

See also

Grain larceny

Wheat, corn and soy prices soar, and thieves haul off tractor-trailers full of grain worth nearly $50,000 from storage silos in Western Kansas. It's a pattern, officials say, and it mirrors events in California when almond prices reached record high in 2007.

by Jason Beaubien

National Public Radio 2008-01-10

Tamping tensions

As Chinese New Year approaches, government announces temporary quota on exports of wheat, corn and rice powder to keep prices - and population - stable. Skyrocketing food prices, led by pork, fresh vegetables and fruit, and eggs pushed inflation to 11-year high.

By Vivian Wai-yin Kwo

Forbes.com 2008-01-02

Pricey rice

Soaring price of rice lures investors, but ripples are felt worldwide. High prices most hurt the world's poor, who spend a large part of their income on food. In Africa, rice prices have increased 40 percent since last year and were partly to blame for November riots in Senegal. Biofuels demand, rising population and weak dollar have depleted rice stores to 24-year low.

By Lauren Etter

The Wall Street Journal 2007-12-15

Bountiful harvest

With fertilizer subsidies, Malawi's new president oversees evolution from hunger and dependence on emergency food aid to surplus, with lower food prices and better wages for workers. Success illustrates role of agriculture in reducing poverty in Africa and the importance of investing in seeds, education and other support systems.

By Celia W. Dugger

The New York Times 2007-12-02

Opinion: Helping out

With 28 percent increase in donations of fruits and vegetables to food banks because of temporary tax break for farmers, ranchers and other small businesses, it's clear that Michigan representative's provision in pension bill should be made permanent.

By Vicki Escarra, President and CEO, America's Second Harvest

Detroit Free Press 2007-11-21

Seeking staples

Reacting to shortages, Venezuelans line up to buy subsidized milk, chicken, eggs, sugar, cooking oil and baby formula, though store racks are full of imported luxury foods. Economists blame surge in demand, but politicos wonder whether shopkeepers are controlling supply to create discord among supporters of President Hugo Chavez.

By Ian James

The Associated Press 2007-11-20

Miso rising

As soybean crops are diverted from food to biofuels, manufacturer raises miso prices by 10 percent. Miso, a soup base in Japanese cuisine, is a foundation of the diet and sometimes is eaten three times a day. Tofu and soy milk prices might show increases as well.

By Vittorio Hernandez

All Headline News 2007-11-15

Global food-print

The global food/agriculture sector, valued by World Bank at $4.8 trillion, is growing fast, because people are cooking less, abandoning countryside for cities and because of pricey healthful foods trend. But its biggest jump comes from voracious appetite of developing middle class for meat and for processed foods.

By Sarah Murray

Forbes.com 2007-11-15

Cost benefits

Population growth, migration and growing middle class craving sugar-and protein-rich processed foods strengthen long-term trend of rising food costs. Investors see profits in commodities and other agriculture-leaning investments.

By Mohammed Hadi

Wall Street Journal 2007-11-14

Fatal lunch

Reigniting worries over food safety standards, 13-year-old girl, 10-year-old boy and four others die after eating soup served at scrap collection business in China's central province of Hubei.

By Stephen McDonell

Australian Broadcasting Corporation 2007-11-14

UK bird flu

As Prime Minister orders review of UK food security and role of farming in climate change, avian flu outbreak slams poultry industry in countryside and is likely to send food prices soaring even higher as holidays approach.

By Valerie Elliott and Gary Duncan

The Times (UK) 2007-11-14

Opinion: Coming hunger

China and India, with burgeoning populations, face changing climate, water shortages and diminishing farmlands, and must boldly address pollution problems and infrastructure needs or they will be big customers on the world commodities market in 30 years.

By Hari Sud

United Press International 2007-11-06

Less for more

In Pakistan, Ramadan- and Eid-related demand for fruits, vegetables, milk, meat, poultry and cooking oil pushed September food prices up on a base of already-higher prices for wheat and flour. Experts expect decline beginning this month.

Daily Times (Pakistan) 2007-10-30

Holding prices

In effort to stop inflation, Russia's smaller retailers join major food producers and store chains in freezing prices of staple foods in months before elections; representative says that alcohol and other premium products, not bread, milk and eggs, are biggest moneymakers.

Thomson Financial News; Forbes; Rossiyskaya Gazeta 2007-10-26

Price panic

Food prices, already protested in Niger, Guinea, Yemen and Mexico, could trigger riots, warns Jacques Diouf, UN food chief; food costs require the bulk of poor citizens' incomes, with more than 2 billion living on $2 a day and vulnerable to price hikes in cereals, vegetable oils and dairy.

By David Brough

Reuters 2007-10-24

Opinion: Food costs

Scramble to keep food prices artificially low in Russia and other countries with subsidies, quotas, price controls and export taxes distorts the market, and once cheap food prices are in place, it's politically impossible to withdraw, editors say.

The editors

Financial Times (London) 2007-10-24

Bread for votes?

As elections near, major Russian food producers and retailers agree to freeze prices on milk, bread, eggs and cooking oil; other measures include raising export taxes on grain, intervention on the commodities market and reducing import for dairy products.

The Associated Press; International Herald-Tribune 2007-10-24

Not a drop

With seven percent of world's water and 20 percent of its population, China rollicks northward as concerns grow about dwindling water supplies, the worldwide economic impact of reducing wheat farming for conservation, and pervasive pollution of rivers and reservoirs.

By Jim Yardley

The New York Times 2007-09-28

Costly changes

Biofuels hunger plus growing middle class in Asia and Latin America drive worldwide demand for corn, wheat and other staples, causing tenacious hikes in grocery bills; grain stockpiles down to 30-year low and humanitarian groups worry about feeding world's poor.

By Scott Killman

Wall Street Journal 2007-09-28

Pass along

With global demand, drought-related crop failure and corn for ethanol replacing food crops, prices rise for wheat, dairy, corn, high-fructose corn syrup and crude oil; processed food and manufacturers begin shrinking packages and/or raising prices, and sales fall.

By Anjali Cordiero

The Wall Street Journal 2007-09-26

Corn conundrum

Praying to the god of corn has its price: nitrogen waste in the waterways, taxpayer money feeding the industry, low-nutrition meat from animals that eat it, but it provides a fertile field of medical research, and in Mexico, growing corn is the only way one farmer ensures his wife's tortillas have the authentic taste.

By Hugh Dellios

Chicago Tribune 2007-09-09

Price bite:

As China creates and begins to enforce stricter standards for food safety to restore confidence in the Made-in-China label, exports to U.S. fall, domestic growers cheer and American consumers see prices head upward.

By Don Lee

Los Angeles Times 2007-09-24

Trading places:

Canadian pork producers suffer as their currency rises against the dollar and wheat growers struggle as well; importers from U.S. are smiling as they bring in crates of lettuce and oranges.

The Canadian Press 2007-09-22

Your score:

To determine your environmental footprint of those restaurant dinners and other lifestyle choices, play this game from American Public Media.

By Christopher Kennedy, Michael Skoler and others

American Public Media and Realtime Associates, Inc. 2007-09-19

Opting out:

Inspired by environmental justice and groups that feed the homeless with surplus food, freegans in New York eschew capitalism and scavenge for groceries in the 50 million pounds of food garbage discarded annually; they favor D'Agostino's, Trader Joe's and Whole Foods.

By Erika Hayasaki

Los Angeles Times 2007-09-11

Not so safe:

With imports flooding the borders and FDA food safety staff winnowed away over the last decade, agents can sometimes only provide a cursory inspection of a listed import; they inspect less than one percent of actual products.

By Stephen J. Hedges

Chicago Tribune 0000-00-00

A perfect storm?

As farmers eagerly switch from food crops to those for biofuels, ecological and social factors led by high food prices, meat-rich diets, dropping water supplies, climate change and the growing population threaten vast numbers of people with food and water shortages.

By John Vidal

The Guardian (UK) 2007-08-29

Opinion: Mountaintop mining

Bush administration's proposed legalization of high-altitude strip mining, with follow-up poisoning of Appalachian drinking water and fish habitats with dumped leftovers, will add converts to reaffirmation of Clean Water Act protections.

The editors

The New York Times (may require subscription) 2007-08-27

See also

Backyard local:

Whether in miniscule back yards or near abandoned houses, urban farmers find every sunny spot and put it to use in effort to connect to their food; backyard chicken and egg trend in Salt Lake City is nothing short of coop d'etat.

By Chris Adamson

Salt Lake City Weekly 2007-08-23

See also

Modified sugar:

Genetically modified sugar beet seed designed to resist Monsanto herbicide is gaining popularity among growers and processors, including American Crystal Sugar Co.; Wyoming Sugar Co., and Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative; farmers must pay $60 premium per acre, and GMO sugar won't carry special label.

Associated Press; CNN 2007-08-22

Grain base

Amber waves of wheat, once vital to Vermont's economy (and even part of the state seal), may return to the state fields, as bakers and locavores seek nearby sources and crops specialist uses USDA grant to grow three heirloom varieties - Surprise, Champlain and Defiance.

By Mel Huff

The Times Argus (VT) 2007-08-13

Immigration fears:

Growers, now hiring thousands of seasonal workers for peak harvest months, cry foul over crackdown on illegal immigrants, declaring it's an effort of government to look good at the expense of the people with the hardest and lowest paid jobs.

By Juliana Barbassa

Associated Press; Forbes.com 2007-08-16

Review:

Three books, "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life," "Plenty: One Man, One Woman and a Raucous Year of Eating Locally," and "Deep Economy: The Wealth of Communities and the Durable Future," explore the omnivore's dilemma, but only Bill McKibben, in "Deep Economy," looks at global problem.

By Laird Harrison

The News & Observer (NC) 2007-08-19

Seeking shelter:

Bumper crop of corn leaves farmers struggling for storage; existing facilities have more business than they can handle, and manufacturers of silos and storage equipment are stepping up production; some farmers may resort to old schoolhouses, airport hangars, caves, or even tarp-covered piles on the ground.

By Shelly Banjo

Wall Street Journal; Pantagraph.com (IL) 2007-08-18

See also

Parched fields:

After scramble to plant more acreage in corn and cash in on ethanol craze, deepening drought and scorching temperatures shrivel farmers' dreams of record corn harvest in South and Southeastern states.

By Jim Nesbitt

The Sun-News (SC); McClatchy Newspapers 0000-00-00

In the money:

Bumper crops of corn and wheat, great weather, plus rising beef prices and ethanol craze, pump prosperity into midwest town, where big engagement rings are seen as flashy and it's unseemly to eat out twice a day or buy a new truck that isn't a copy of your old one.

By Kevin Helliker

Wall Street Journal; Daily Herald (IL) 0000-00-00

See also

Orphan organics?

Though customers spend more than $14 billion a year on organics and depend on USDA label even for imports, USDA infrastructure, with nine staffers and a $1.5 million budget, languishes; other departments spend about $28 million a year on organic research, data collection and farmer assistance, but the department spent $37 million subsidizing farmers who grew dry peas, an $83 million crop, in 2005.

By Andrew Martin

The New York Times (may require subscription) 0000-00-00

Opinion: Illegals

Bush administration deserves credit for pushing immigration reform, but enforcement-only plan for handling illegal immigrants could create potentially devastating consequences for farmers at harvest season.

The editors

Denver Post 2007-08-14

Sugar-powered?

Canadian survey shows that productivity of hungry, sleepy workers can drop by 20 percent, that mid-afternoon lethargy often is fought with a sugary snack or a caffeine jolt, which might be because vending machines don't offer any more nutritiously attractive choices.

By Larry Johnsrude

The Edmonton Journal (Canada)

Wal-Mart's adventure:

When discount superstore partnership enters India through wholesale stores, obstacles will include supply chain made up of mostly small shopkeepers, long chains of middlemen, each of whom takes a cut, and up to 60 percent waste during food transport.

Wall Street Journal (may require subscription)

Reviews:

"The Zen of Fish," and "The Sushi Economy," offer lessons in how global economy works, dangers of over-fishing and how it thrives on demand, and why trout might not be the best choice for eating raw (think tapeworms).

By Stuart Biggs

bloomberg.com 2007-08-08

Blame it on corn?

Ethanol craze blamed for high prices across the supermarket, but other factors include surge in global food demand, high oil prices, uncooperative weather, and the slide of the dollar against other world currencies.

By Barrett Sheridan

Newsweek magazine

Energy-wise:

If refrigerator and other appliances are older than 10 years, it's likely that newer versions would be more efficient and cheaper to use, but don't put the old one in the basement - it will be a guzzler there as well.

By Ken Sheinkopf

The Ledger (Lakeland, FL)

Wheat increase:

With ethanol craze and escalating corn prices taking all the attention, worldwide drought has gone almost unnoticed, but it is driving wheat prices up; breadmakers are paying more for flour and weak dollar makes U.S. wheat attractive.

By Jeff Cox

CNNMoney.com

OPINION

New interactive map allows users to tract proliferation of factory farms by state and county - even number of animals - and it raises questions of whether we pursue the logic of industrialism to its limits, and how badly will it harm the landscape, the people who live in it and democracy itself?

The editors

The New York Times (may require subscription)

See also

Saving water

Coca-Cola, Nestle, and Läckeby Water Group join other food, drink producers in UN agreement to use water more efficiently; lack of access to clean water and sanitation undermines humanitarian, social, environmental, and economic goals.

By Ahmed ElAmin

foodproductiondaily.com

OPINION

Current agricultural policies distort food costs, waste billions of taxpayer dollars, and subsidize a handful of large farming operations that raise a few selected crops - and subvert subsistence farmers across the globe by dumping cheap surplus goods at below-market prices.

By Senator Richard Lugar and Representative Ron Kind

The Modesto Bee (CA) 2007-07-15

Food/Farm bill:

It's a $70 billion annual bill, and before, only agribusiness cared, but a tsunami of activists now believes that its subsidies for corn and soy encourage diet-related disease and climate change; instead, they advocate money for sustainable and organic food production, agricultural conservation and for a priority on fresh, local fruits and vegetables.

By Carol Ness

San Francisco Chronicle