Global food security assessment guidelines: A step-by - International ...

Global food security assessment guidelinesExample 3: Results of price comparison in various towns in Toledo District, Belize in theimmediate aftermath of Hurricane IrisThis example shows the prices for food and non-food commodities in seven locations affected by thehurricane. The commodities were chosen after interviewing key-informants regarding the types ofgoods people needed, and by looking at what was available in local shops.It emerges that prices are fairly stable for food, but not so for other products. This is an interestingfinding, as is the fact that some goods cannot be found at all (when the price is zero, it means theproduct is not available). Price fluctuations are usually linked to availability and purchasing power.Variations therefore need to be explored further, in order to determine whether prices are likely toremain stable, whether they will change as soon roads in the district are re-opened, or whether theywill continue to be volatile due to the uncertain post-hurricane environment. Do not forget that thearrival of relief goods will affect prices as well.10AnnexesAverage cost1 lb cheap rice 0.711 lb maize flour 0.621 lb red kidney beans 0.541 lb salt 0.531 lb sugar brown/white 0.501 lb fat 1.431 bar soap 1.13250g detergent 0.901 pint bleach 0.7510 pints chicken feed 0.001 live chicken 1.6791