PCD

Cambridge IELTS Writing Task 2 Test 4

In many countries nowadays, consumers can go to a supermarket and buy food produced all over the world.

In many countries nowadays, consumers can go to a supermarket and buy food produced all over the world.
Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

In many countries, consumers can now visit grocery stores and buy food from all over the world. I view this development somewhat positively because it expands the variety of food choices and promotes global trade, though it also raises environmental concerns.

One reason I see this trend favorably is that it offers consumers access to a wide range of food options. Being able to buy international products allows people to explore different cuisines and ingredients that wouldn’t normally be available. For instance, I’ve been able to purchase exotic fruits like dragon fruit and kiwis at my local supermarket, expanding my culinary experiences.

Moreover, I consider this development beneficial because it fosters global trade and supports economies worldwide. By importing food from different countries, supermarkets help create economic ties and support farmers and producers globally. For example, the availability of fair-trade products like coffee and chocolate at my local store ensures that I’m getting quality goods while supporting fair wages for farmers in developing countries.

However, a significant downside is the environmental impact of transporting food across long distances. The carbon emissions from shipping and airfreighting food contribute to climate change and environmental damage. For instance, I’ve noticed that avocados from Mexico travel thousands of miles to reach my supermarket, which raises concerns about the sustainability of such practices.

In conclusion, I am generally positive about the availability of global food products in supermarkets. While the variety and economic benefits are significant, the environmental impact is a concern. However, I believe that advances in green energy will soon reduce the environmental footprint of food transportation.