Food insecurity is a pressing global issue that has been increasingly featured in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on recent trends, it’s highly likely that this topic will continue to appear in future tests. After analyzing past exam questions, I’ve identified a relevant prompt that closely aligns with the theme of alleviating food insecurity worldwide:

Some people believe that governments should focus on reducing food waste to address global hunger. Others think increasing food production is a better solution. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Let’s break down this question and explore how to craft effective responses for different band scores.

Analyzing the Question

This prompt presents a classic IELTS discussion essay structure, asking you to:

1. Discuss two contrasting views on addressing global hunger:
   • Reducing food waste
   • Increasing food production
2. Provide your own opinion on which approach is more effective

The question touches on key aspects of food insecurity, including resource allocation, waste management, and agricultural productivity. It’s crucial to address both perspectives equally before presenting a well-reasoned opinion.

Global food insecurity illustration

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay that effectively addresses the prompt:

Food insecurity remains a significant challenge in many parts of the world, and there is ongoing debate about the most effective strategies to combat this issue. While some advocate for reducing food waste, others argue that increasing food production is the key to addressing global hunger. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering a balanced view on the matter.

Those who support focusing on food waste reduction argue that a substantial amount of food is lost or discarded unnecessarily. In developed countries, for instance, perfectly edible produce is often rejected due to cosmetic imperfections, while in developing nations, inadequate storage and transportation infrastructure lead to significant post-harvest losses. By implementing better management systems and raising awareness about food waste, governments could potentially redirect millions of tons of food to those in need, thus alleviating hunger without necessarily increasing production.

On the other hand, proponents of boosting food production contend that the world’s growing population demands an increase in overall food supply. They argue that technological advancements in agriculture, such as genetically modified crops and precision farming techniques, can significantly enhance yields and create a more abundant food supply. This approach, they believe, is essential to meet the nutritional needs of an expanding global population, particularly in regions where arable land is scarce.

In my opinion, a comprehensive approach that combines both strategies is likely to be most effective in addressing food insecurity. While reducing waste can undoubtedly make a significant impact, particularly in the short term, increasing production through sustainable methods will be crucial for long-term food security. Governments should invest in education and infrastructure to minimize food waste while simultaneously supporting research and development in agricultural technologies to boost production efficiency.

In conclusion, tackling global hunger requires a multifaceted approach. By addressing both food waste and production, we can create a more resilient and equitable global food system that ensures access to adequate nutrition for all.

(308 words)

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s a sample essay that would typically score in the Band 6-7 range:

Food insecurity is a big problem in many countries. Some people think governments should focus on reducing food waste to solve this issue, while others believe increasing food production is better. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.

Reducing food waste is important because a lot of food is thrown away unnecessarily. In rich countries, supermarkets often throw away food that looks imperfect but is still good to eat. In poor countries, food sometimes goes bad because there aren’t good ways to store it. If governments help solve these problems, more food could be given to hungry people instead of being wasted.

On the other hand, increasing food production could also help feed more people. As the world’s population grows, we need more food. New farming methods and technologies can help grow more food on the same amount of land. This could be especially helpful in places where it’s hard to grow food.

I think both ideas are good, but reducing food waste is probably more important. It’s easier and faster to stop wasting food than to grow more. Also, growing more food can sometimes harm the environment if it’s not done carefully.

In conclusion, while both reducing food waste and increasing production can help fight hunger, I believe focusing on waste reduction is the better choice. However, a combination of both approaches might be the best way to solve this problem in the long run.

(234 words)

Key Writing Tips for This Topic

1. Vocabulary: Use a range of topic-specific vocabulary to demonstrate your language proficiency. For Band 8-9, incorporate more advanced terms and phrases. For Band 6-7, focus on using relevant vocabulary accurately.

2. Grammar: For higher bands, use a variety of complex structures. For Band 6-7, aim for a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally accurate grammar.

3. Coherence and Cohesion: Ensure your essay flows logically. Use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect ideas.

4. Task Response: Address all parts of the question fully. For Band 8-9, provide a nuanced discussion with well-developed ideas. For Band 6-7, cover the main points with some supporting details.

5. Tone: Maintain a formal, academic tone throughout your essay.

Essential Vocabulary for Food Insecurity Essays

1. Food insecurity (noun) /fuːd ɪnˌsɪkjʊərəti/: Lack of reliable access to sufficient quantities of affordable, nutritious food.

2. Malnutrition (noun) /ˌmælnjuˈtrɪʃən/: Poor nutrition due to an insufficient or unbalanced diet.

3. Sustainable agriculture (noun phrase) /səˈsteɪnəbəl ˈæɡrɪkʌltʃər/: Farming practices that ensure food production without harming the environment.

4. Food sovereignty (noun phrase) /fuːd ˈsɒvrənti/: The right of people to healthy and culturally appropriate food produced through sustainable methods.

5. Post-harvest losses (noun phrase) /pəʊst ˈhɑːvɪst ˈlɒsɪz/: Food losses that occur after harvesting but before reaching the consumer.

6. Food distribution (noun phrase) /fuːd ˌdɪstrɪˈbjuːʃən/: The process of delivering food from producers to consumers.

7. Crop yield (noun phrase) /krɒp jiːld/: The amount of crop produced per unit of land area.

8. Food desert (noun phrase) /fuːd ˈdezət/: An area where access to affordable, healthy food options is limited or non-existent.

9. Subsistence farming (noun phrase) /səbˈsɪstəns ˈfɑːmɪŋ/: A type of farming in which farmers focus on growing enough food to feed themselves and their families.

10. Food aid (noun phrase) /fuːd eɪd/: Assistance provided to people in need in the form of food or resources to obtain food.

Conclusion

Addressing global food insecurity is a complex challenge that requires a multifaceted approach. As you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2, remember to consider various aspects of the issue, including food waste reduction, increased production, sustainable agriculture, and equitable distribution.

To further enhance your writing skills, try composing your own essay on this topic:

Some experts believe that improving local food systems is key to reducing global food insecurity, while others argue that international trade is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Practice writing a response to this prompt and consider sharing it in the comments section for feedback. This active approach to learning will help you develop the skills needed to tackle any food insecurity-related question that may appear in your IELTS exam.