Contextual factors affecting food security : a behavioural framework

![CDATA[Globalised distribution networks together with advances in information and communication technologies as well as transport routes and infrastructure have led to long and complex food supply chains where the physical footprint of production operations are located far from the points of consumption. This increasing complexity exacerbated by surges in global food prices due to low levels of production in grain-producing nations and the rising costs of oil, fertilizers, and transportation, is raising concerns about food security in many countries, especially those that rely on food imports to feed their population. On the other hand, several academic challenges associated with food security comprise unpacking this multi-faceted concept and finding ways to improve it. In fact, food security is at the top of the agenda in countries with relatively low capacity to be self-sustaining in food. An example is Qatar, which consists of low, barren plains covered with sand and subject to intense heat during dry seasons. Another relevant aspect for Qatar is the annual population growth of 2.87% (WorldBank, 2017), which is above the average population growth in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in the region. With increasing population and food provision depending on imports that comprise more than 90% of the food consumed in Qatar, it is not a surprise that food security is a top priority. This paper is a research outcome of the SAFE-Q Project, which aims to contribute to food security efforts in Qatar with the overarching research idea of a holistic approach to food distribution, food consumption, and food waste.]]