The Effects of The Coronavirus on Our Food Supply

The Coronavirus has Americans beginning to worry about food supply. However, many people are stating that a shortage of food will not occur in America. Shelves have been wiped clean at stores nationwide and many stores are closing early to restock their shelves. People are taking way more than needed and not caring about other people. It is important to stop hoarding and care about your neighbors/people around you. 

The world needs to work together to make a change and have a beneficial outcome for everyone. The UN has begun to urge the affected countries to implement emergency measures domestically, alongside working together on a global level to protect the food supply. Junior, Lizzie Kennedy stated that “Many people who relied on many food takeout places that have been shut down because of the pandemic are most likely scrambling for food. It is crazy.”

A common question being asked is, what happens to our food supply if American farmers can’t farm? The answer is simple, Governments can protect their citizens by mobilizing food banks, offering cash transfers to at-risk households, creating emergency food reserves, and taking steps to protect the much-needed agriculture workers. Junior, Allie Kennedy said that “Even private companies and organizations have called for immediate action to address the ongoing food catastrophe.”

It is also crucial that governments eliminate export restrictions and import tariffs during this time internationally. Poorer countries that can’t afford stimulus packages ad agriculture bailouts should attempt to seek international funding. The world was immensely unprepared for this pandemic. Junior, Allison Brown stated that “This pandemic was so unexpected, which makes it even scarier.” However, by keeping the gears of the supply chains moving and actively pursuing international cooperation to keep trade open, countries can ultimately prevent food shortages and protect the most at-risk populations.