Examines linkages between trade and diet; and the policy options available to address the linkages. Traces the history of the food trade, addressing the question of, why trade food? Provides an overview of trade and investment in food and agriculture, and the resultant impact on imports, exports and the whole food supply chain. Looks at links between trade and the consumption of specific foods; and at the issue of prices and costs in depth. Argues that trade affects what people eat primarily through indirect rather than direct channels. Suggests that trade liberalisation has been a facilitator of the nutrition transition by changing food availability, prices and marketing, thereby encouraging consumers to consume certain foods over others. Provides evidence that liberalisation has strongly negative dietary implications for a particularly vulnerable group - children. Examines whether the EU's CAP has been a factor in changing dietary patterns and suggests that CAP may have affected food consumption elsewhere in the world. Examines the policy space available to governments to implement policies given their international obligations under trade agreements. Makes a detailed analysis of whether policies commonly recommended to address obesity, specifically those set out in the European Charter for Counteracting Obesity, would be permitted within the disciplines imposed by trade agreements.

1/9/13 EVELYND