The Fifth World Food Survey: an assessment of food supplies and malnutrition.
The methodology and findings of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization's Fifth World Food Survey are reviewed. Data compiled from national food balance sheets indicate that per capita energy supplies increased by 14% during the past two decades. The number of undernourished is estimated for the periods 1969 to 1971 and 1979 to 1981 on the basis of a distribution of population food intakes and two alternative estimates of minimal energy requirements. The survey findings indicate that the proportion of undernourished in the developing market economies decreased, although an estimated 335 million to 494 million people fall in this category. In the least developed countries, the proportion of undernourished increased during this period. Elimination of poverty, the fundamental cause of malnutrition, through increased economic and agricultural development, is regarded as the only long-term solution to malnutrition. Short-term solutions are also needed to address interim needs and the diverse environmental, social, and cultural factors implicated in the causation of malnutrition. Short-term solutions include nutrition programs, complementary health measures, food subsidies, population programs, and programs aimed at improving the status of women. Projected future food needs in developing countries also indicate the need for increased international food trade and expanded foreign aid.
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Department of Nutrition, Simmons College, Boston.
D003906:Developing Countries; D005523:Food Supply; D006266:Health Education; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D009748:Nutrition Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D011640:Public Policy; D014480:United Nations