The Hand that Feeds U.S.

August 4, 2010

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Excuse Me Waiter, Make Mine American

America might be embroiled in an economic recession right now, but there are just some things not worth skimping on—like good, homegrown food.

Ninety-five percent of Americans said it was important for the United States to produce its own food instead of depending on imports, according to a new survey by Harris Interactive.

And when it comes to sugar, nearly seven in 10 survey respondents said they'd rather buy U.S. sugar even if imports were cheaper.

The results shouldn't come as a huge shock to anyone.

The Secretary of Agriculture recently said of America's need to maintain food security, "If you have a problem with Hugo Chavez providing your oil, how do you feel about him providing your food?"

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The Sweet 'n Lowdown

A chocolate bar in 2008 set you back about 90 cents.

For those of us who can remember when 100 Grand Bars cost 50 cents, the 2008 price probably seems steep (especially when you realize that candy bar sizes have been simultaneously shrinking). But considering the rapid price hikes in recent years, it's actually a steal.

According to an annual survey of candy prices conducted by the American Sugar Alliance (ASA), candy bar prices shot up to 99 cents last year and are peaking today at $1.09.

Why? Some manufacturers might point to ingredient prices. After all, farmers are often food companies' scapegoat when the cost of farm goods goes up. That doesn't explain this phenomenon though.

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Brazil's Unlevel Playing Field

In this summer's World Cup tournament, Brazil's team struck fear into the hearts of competitors because, on the playing field, it is dominant.

Brazil similarly strikes fear into the hearts of competitors when it comes to agriculture. But its dominance in this area is the direct result of the unlevel playing field the country has been able to carve out for itself in the World Trade Organization.

Even though Brazil's growth has come from highly advanced and large-scale farms, its status as a lesser-developed country gives it real advantages in the international trade arena. And Brazil has used the WTO to seek to harm its competitors.

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