Famine thresholds surpassed in three new areas of southern Somalia

The current crisis in southern Somalia is driven by a combination of factors. The total failure of the October‐December Deyr rains (secondary season) and the poor performance of the April‐June Gu rains (primary season) have resulted in crop failure, reduced labor demand, poor livestock body conditions, and excess animal mortality. The resulting decline in maize and sorghum availability has subsequently pushed local cereal prices to record levels and, in combination with reduced livestock prices and wages, substantially reduced household purchasing power in all livelihood zones. Largescale displacement and significant limitations on humanitarian access have further exacerbated the situation. Read more...

Can Big Food Regulate Itself?

Mark Bittman on recent developments in Federal nutritional standards: Life would be so much easier if we could set our own guidelines. You could define the average weight as ten pounds higher than your own, and, voila, no more obesity! Read more...