Feeding Frenzy: The New Politics of Food

Review In this passionately argued book, McMahon states that we already produce enough food to feed nine billion people and that there are vast, untapped areas of fertile arable land ― Sunday Times An illuminating history ― FT Revealing ... offers refreshingly ordinary answers ― Observer Product Description This subject is as big as they come: the world's food supply. Written for a popular audience, Feeding Frenzy traces the history of the global food system and reveals the underlying causes of recent food shortages and price spikes - what the media has labelled a 'world food crisis'. As the tectonic plates of the world food system shift, forces are being unleashed that threaten the security of billions. Food-producing countries are banning exports to benefit their own citizens, even if this means that other countries starve. Most worryingly, they are acquiring huge areas of under-utilised farmland in poorest countries to grow crops for export, often at the expense of local communities. Some of the trends identified in this book are unstoppable. But McMahon also outlines actions that can be taken to lower the risks of conflict and to produce fairer outcomes. It is possible to envisage a more benign scenario, associated with a shift to a sustainable and productive form of agriculture. Which path will the world choose? Book Description A passionate argument that asks 'can the world feed itself?' Comparable to Jared Diamond in its compelling and accessible narrative style. About the Author Paul McMahon has authored reports on sustainable food systems as an advisor to The Prince of Wales's International Sustainability Unit and to the UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation. He co-founded and now helps run SLM Partners, a business that invests in sustainable agriculture in Australia and across the world. Born in Ireland, he holds a PhD from Cambridge University.