Food safety is a critical global issue that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on past exam trends and the increasing importance of this topic, it’s highly likely that you’ll encounter a question related to food safety challenges in your IELTS test. Let’s explore this topic through a sample question and provide essay examples for different band scores.
Analyzing the Task
Some people believe that the government should be responsible for ensuring food safety, while others think it is the responsibility of individuals. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that the government should be responsible for food safety
- Discuss the view that individuals should be responsible for food safety
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at two sample essays that tackle this topic.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Food safety is a paramount concern in modern society, and opinions are divided on whether the government or individuals should bear the primary responsibility for ensuring it. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering a balanced view on this critical issue.
Those who advocate for government responsibility argue that food safety is too complex and far-reaching for individuals to manage alone. They contend that governments have the resources and authority to implement and enforce strict food safety regulations across the entire food supply chain. For instance, governments can establish food safety agencies, conduct regular inspections of food production facilities, and impose penalties on violators. Moreover, they can launch public education campaigns to raise awareness about food safety practices, which can have a broader impact than individual efforts.
On the other hand, proponents of individual responsibility assert that personal vigilance is the most effective safeguard against food-related health risks. They argue that individuals are ultimately responsible for what they consume and should take proactive measures to ensure their food is safe. This includes properly washing and cooking food, checking expiration dates, and making informed choices about where to purchase food. Additionally, they believe that consumer demand for safe food products can drive market forces to improve overall food safety standards.
In my opinion, ensuring food safety requires a collaborative effort between governments and individuals. While governments should provide the necessary framework and oversight for food safety, individuals must also play an active role in protecting themselves. Governments can establish and enforce food safety regulations, but individuals need to be educated and vigilant in their daily food practices. This balanced approach can create a more robust food safety system that protects public health more effectively.
Word count: 275
Government and Individual Collaboration for Food Safety
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Food safety is an important topic in today’s world. Some people think the government should be in charge of making sure our food is safe, while others believe it’s up to individuals. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.
First, many people say the government should be responsible for food safety. They think the government has more power and money to check food companies and make rules. For example, the government can send inspectors to factories and restaurants to make sure they are clean and following the rules. They can also punish companies that don’t follow the rules. This can help keep everyone safe.
On the other hand, some people believe individuals should be responsible for their own food safety. They say that people should be careful about what they eat and how they prepare food. For instance, people can wash fruits and vegetables, cook meat properly, and check if food has gone bad before eating it. They also think that if people demand safer food, companies will make their products safer to keep customers happy.
In my opinion, both the government and individuals have important roles in food safety. The government should make rules and check food companies, but people also need to be careful about what they eat and how they prepare it. If everyone works together, we can have safer food for everyone.
Word count: 234
Key Considerations When Writing
When addressing the challenges of food safety in your IELTS Writing Task 2 essay, keep the following points in mind:
For Band 8-9:
- Use sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Provide specific examples to support your arguments
- Demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the topic
- Ensure a logical flow of ideas with clear paragraphing
- Use a variety of cohesive devices effectively
For Band 6-7:
- Use a mix of simple and complex sentences
- Include some topic-specific vocabulary
- Provide general examples to support your points
- Maintain a clear overall structure
- Use basic cohesive devices to link ideas
Essential Vocabulary for Food Safety Essays
Food safety (noun) /fuːd ˈseɪfti/ – The practices and conditions that preserve food quality and prevent contamination.
Contamination (noun) /kənˌtæmɪˈneɪʃn/ – The presence of unwanted substances in food that can cause illness.
Regulatory (adjective) /ˈreɡjələtɔːri/ – Relating to or concerned with regulation.
Oversight (noun) /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – The action of overseeing something, especially the supervision of a process.
Vigilant (adjective) /ˈvɪdʒɪlənt/ – Keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties.
Proactive (adjective) /prəʊˈæktɪv/ – Creating or controlling a situation rather than just responding to it after it has happened.
Enforcement (noun) /ɪnˈfɔːsmənt/ – The act of compelling observance of or compliance with a law, rule, or obligation.
Collaborative (adjective) /kəˈlæbərətɪv/ – Involving two or more parties working together.
Supply chain (noun) /səˈplaɪ tʃeɪn/ – The network between a company and its suppliers to produce and distribute a specific product.
Foodborne illness (noun) /ˈfuːdbɔːn ˈɪlnəs/ – Any illness resulting from the consumption of contaminated food.
Conclusion
Addressing the challenges of food safety is a complex topic that requires careful consideration of various perspectives. As you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2, practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of technology in improving food safety
- The impact of globalization on food safety standards
- Balancing food safety regulations with economic concerns
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use appropriate vocabulary, and provide relevant examples to support your arguments. We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the sample question provided and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.
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