Question

Argue for the following:

The current standards that are in place regarding quality standards and food distribution are adequate. [approximately 250 words]

Answer 1

Food is one of the physiological need at first level according to Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Food is a basic right for a human. Food promotes wellness and prevents diseases. Sound health depends on quality of food. Food safety is a factor promoting quality of food. Proper handling of food with cleanliness, segregation and storage is food safety.When there is any distruption in food safety it leads to decreased food quality. Food quality and food safety are interlinked and inversely proportional to distribution. When a food package is not sealed or stored well , it questions the quality and so distribution may be not carried out.

The FAO/WHO International Conference on Nutrition (ICN) recognised that regular access to adequate quantities of good quality and safe foods is necessary for proper nutrition. Food quality and distribution are properly regulated in developed countries , but in case of developing countries the quality standards are not followed and food distribution is inadequate.

Rapid growth of Population , lack of resources, Urbanisation, Use of pesticides,unemployment, poverty adversely affect food distribution and quality. Around 1 billion people lack food and are malnourished . Children suffer growth retardation and their mental capacity is deteriorating . The ability of adults to lead fully productive lives is lost. Food if available also, remain contaminated or adulterated leading to decreased nutritional quality and pose severe harm to people's nutritional wellness.In developing countries the transportation also may be limited leading to inadequate distribution of food.Disparity in the world is prevalent between people with adequate food and those suffering from hunger.

Lowering costs of food, availability, employment , literacy and transportation may improve adequate food distribution .Strengthening of food control systems by legal policies and its updation regularly, organising food control programmes ,training and technical assistance may improve food quality and safety.

Thus , We are what we eat.