Here’s The Only Food Pyramid That Matters In A Peak Oil Future

Food crises will become more common over the next century, according to a new report from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization.

It’s easy to see why.

The report cites predictions that global food demand will increase 50% by 2030. Meanwhile global demand for energy and water will increase 40%. As you may remember from 2008, an oil crisis quickly leads to a food crisis, as 30% of global energy consumption goes into food.

In a peak oil future, savvy consumers will rely on grain, fruit and vegetables, which have a smaller energy input. Here’s the food pyramid that really matters:

Countries should also focus on reducing the energy that goes into food production.

High GDP countries waste a shameful amount of energy at the level of retail, preparation and cooking — including food that doesn’t sell and food that gets thrown away by the consumer. Low GDP countries waste tons of energy of inefficient processing and distribution.

Altogether one-third of food produced is not consumed.

The report suggests using renewable energy and energy efficiency programs to decouple food prices from oil prices. It also discusses the importance of policies for increasing energy access in poor countries, and promoting energy efficiency throughout the entire supply chain in developed countries.