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Globalisation and income growth promote the Mediterranean diet

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2007

Anita Regmi ,
Nicole Ballenger  and
Judy Putnam
Anita Regmi*
Affiliation:
Economic Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, 1800 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA
Nicole Ballenger
Affiliation:
Economic Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, 1800 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA
Judy Putnam
Affiliation:
Economic Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, 1800 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA
*
*Corresponding author: Email aregmi@ers.usda.gov
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Abstract

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Objective:

To examine global food demand patterns and how changing diets may stimulate demand for and trade of Mediterranean diet products.

Design:

Literature review. Trends in global and US food consumption patterns are examined and trade data are reviewed to evaluate the impact of changing diets on trade of Mediterranean diet products. Market access issues are also addressed briefly to highlight the role of policy in the trade of Mediterranean diet products.

Results:

Diets are shifting towards higher-value products such as meats, fruits and vegetables, and a wider array of packaged food products. Trade in these products has also grown in the past two decades, with several non-traditional importers and exporters becoming increasingly active in the global market.

Conclusions:

Income-driven demands for quality and variety are likely to increase the demand for Mediterranean diet products globally. While the middle-income countries appear to be the best growth prospects, the USA remains a potential growth market if these products can meet the growing consumer demand for variety, quality and convenience. Although consumer trends globally indicate growth in demand for Mediterranean diet products, the additional demand may not be reflected by a corresponding growth in trade. Trade in Mediterranean diet products continues to be hampered by higher than average trade barriers and high transportation costs for perishables.

Keywords

ConsumptionIncomeTradeMediterranean diet
Type
Research Article
Information
Public Health Nutrition , Volume 7 , Issue 7 , October 2004 , pp. 977 - 983
Copyright
Copyright © The Authors 2004

References

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