The war in Ukraine is exposing gaps in the world’s food-systems research (Nature)

Nature published an editorial stating that Russia’s invasion is the latest threat to the stability of world food supplies. Researchers must act now to halt the cycle of repeated food crises. According to Rob Vos, Division Director (MTID), by 12 April, a total of 16 countries had banned or restricted food exports. This marked reduction in supply is fueling inflation. Taken together, the impacts could be catastrophic for some of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people. At least 26 countries, including Somalia, Senegal, and Egypt, rely on one or both Russia and Ukraine for between 50 percent and 100 percent of their wheat. If the war continues, many countries already saddled with pandemic debt could be forced to borrow more to subsidize staple foods, creating more hardship. Clearly, action must be taken now.