The Washington Post is running a week-long series on the world hunger crisis.

“This series explores the causes and effects of the world’s worst food crisis since the 1970s. A complex combination of poor harvests, competition with biofuels, higher energy prices, surging demand in China and India, and a blockage in global trade is driving food prices up worldwide. Some countries, especially in Africa, are facing an increasingly dire situation while even consumers in wealthy nations are being forced to adjust.” (The Washington Post)

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Series’ schedule:

Sunday, April 27

Global Shortage: As food demand and supply fall out of balance, the sustaining power of globalization is breaking down. In a world interlinked as never before, the food crisis spreads from country to country, sparking unrest and spiking hunger.

Monday, April 28

In Africa: The Food Trap. With prices soaring, the world’s poorest nations, dependent on the global marketplace to feed their people, are losing the fight against hunger. Mauritania, and much of Africa, relies on imported food. As trade breaks down, destitute people face tough choices.

Tuesday, April 29

Wheat: Vast transformations in U.S. agriculture have encouraged farmers to plant less wheat, spelling an end to an era of cheap bagels, pasta, bread and noodles.

Wednesday, April 30

Corn: Congress and President Bush have set mandates for corn-based ethanol use. But the linking of food and fuel is creating problems for livestock and poultry farmers and consumers.

Thursday, May 1

American Consumers: Consumers in almost every income bracket are looking to save by altering where and how they buy food.

-Virginia Simmons

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