The Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) food price index dropped to its lowest level in two years in August. This index tracks the monthly fluctuations in international prices of a diverse range of food commodities, including cereals, vegetables, dairy, meat, and sugar. The FAO, a specialized agency of the United Nations headquartered in Rome, aims to combat hunger, improve nutrition, and enhance food security worldwide. With 195 member countries, including the European Union, the FAO operates in over 130 nations. It also publishes various reports, such as the State of the World’s Forests and the State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization): FAO is a specialized agency of the United Nations focused on eradicating hunger, improving nutrition, and ensuring food security globally.
- Food Price Index: The FAO Food Price Index is a measure of monthly changes in international prices for a variety of food commodities, helping to gauge global food price trends.
- Cereal: Cereals are staple food grains like wheat, rice, maize, and oats, essential for human nutrition and often a significant component of the FAO Food Price Index.
- Rome (Italy): Rome serves as the headquarters for FAO, playing a crucial role in coordinating international efforts to combat hunger and food insecurity.
- State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI): SOFI is one of the reports published by FAO, providing comprehensive data and analysis on global food security and nutrition status.
