The potential effects of demands for natural and safe foods on global food security

Relationships are explored between the fundamental requirements of food security, as defined by FAO, and the expanding demands from developing communities for natural foods and ingredients that are fresh or minimally processed, readily available, reasonably priced and yet safe for consumption, according to local standards. Such demands are having a global impact on trade and can produce serious negative effects on less developed countries and their basic agriculture. The challenge is in how such expanding demands of the affluent can be met, while balancing the basic needs of the less fortunate. What will provide the best instrument for achieving an equitable balance?