Category: Global agriculture

With more than 400 million metric tons produced globally in 2024, soy has become a staple in diets around the world. While production is dominated by the Americas, the question of where is soy most popular for human consumption reveals a different story, one with deep cultural roots in East Asia and rapidly growing interest in Western markets.

According to World Population Review, over 38 countries have banned the cultivation of genetically modified crops, leading many consumers to wonder: where are bioengineered foods banned? The answer is complex, with varied regulations across continents, including outright prohibitions, cultivation bans, and strict labeling laws. This global landscape is shaped by diverse factors, from public opinion to national trade policies.

Over 60 countries worldwide require labeling of genetically modified foods, yet the policies on cultivating or importing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) vary significantly. Discover which countries do not use GMOs, exploring the complex regulations that govern their cultivation, import, and sale across the globe.

Smallholder farmers, often operating on less than two hectares of land, produce approximately one-third of the world's food supply, despite managing only a fraction of the planet’s agricultural land. However, the vast majority of food for urban populations is sourced from a complex, interconnected global food system dominated by large-scale industrial farming and distribution.

Just 15 crops provide 90 percent of global energy intake, with the 'big four' staples—maize, rice, wheat, and potatoes—feeding billions of people worldwide. These crops are the foundation of diets across diverse cultures and economies, providing essential energy and nutrients for daily life.

According to the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan, Pakistan was recently ranked as one of the lowest-risk countries for food safety standards regarding rice exports in the fiscal year 2023-24. Consumers often question the safety of their food, and a major query that arises is: is rice from Pakistan safe to eat? The answer is complex, involving adherence to international quality standards, regulation of contaminants, and transparent supply chains.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), 83% of the world's calories and 62% of its protein are derived from plants. This establishes that the biggest source of food for humanity is overwhelmingly plant-based agriculture, with cereal grains playing a central role.

India is the world's leading producer of fenugreek, responsible for cultivating over 80% of the global supply. However, this annual herb, a staple in many cuisines and traditional medicines, has a long history and diverse cultivation practices that extend far beyond its primary production region.

According to the latest report by FiBL and IFOAM - Organics International, Denmark consistently leads the global organic market share, with consumers purchasing a higher proportion of organic products than anywhere else in the world. The concept of 'best' organic food, however, is multifaceted, encompassing not just consumption, but also strict standards, sustainable farming practices, and consumer trust. This makes pinpointing a single definitive winner a complex task, requiring a deeper look into various national approaches.

The world produces enough food to feed everyone on the planet, yet millions still face hunger due to complex logistical issues. To better understand this, we must explore where do we get most of our food from, examining the intricate systems that supply global nourishment.