IELTS Band 9 Essay About Food travels thousands of miles

Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “Food travels thousands of miles from farm to consumers”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 150 band 9 IELTS sample released in 2024.

Short about food travels thousands of miles from farm to consumers

The global food supply chain often involves transporting produce over thousands of miles, from farms to consumers. This phenomenon is largely driven by globalization, the pursuit of year-round availability, and economic factors such as cost-effective production in certain regions. While some argue that this enhances consumer choice and boosts international trade, others believe it contributes to environmental degradation and undermines local economies. Understanding the motivations behind this trend, as well as its broader implications, is essential to determine whether it is a beneficial or detrimental practice. This essay will evaluate the reasons for long-distance food transportation and assess its impact.

Sample Answer (Band 9)

Food travels thousands of miles from farm to consumers.

What is the reason for it?

Is this trend positive or negative?

The transportation of food across vast distances has become a defining feature of modern supply chains. This trend is primarily driven by economic, logistical, and consumer preferences. While it brings certain benefits, I believe its negative consequences outweigh its advantages.

One key reason for this phenomenon is the economic efficiency of producing certain crops in specific regions. Countries with favorable climates and lower labor costs can grow fruits, vegetables, and grains more competitively, making it cost-effective to export them globally. For instance, tropical fruits like bananas are often sourced from countries in Central America due to optimal growing conditions. Additionally, advancements in refrigeration and logistics enable perishable goods to be transported over long distances without significant quality loss.

From a consumer perspective, the demand for year-round availability of diverse products has also fueled this trend. Supermarkets often stock exotic fruits and out-of-season produce, catering to customer preferences for variety and convenience. This globalized food supply system offers consumers access to products that were once considered luxuries, enhancing their quality of life.

However, the environmental impact of this practice cannot be overlooked. Transporting food over long distances requires substantial amounts of fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. The concept of “food miles” highlights the carbon footprint associated with these logistics. Moreover, the reliance on imported goods can undermine local agriculture, as farmers struggle to compete with cheaper, mass-produced imports.

Another concern is the potential for food insecurity in exporting countries. When significant portions of a nation’s produce are allocated for export, domestic availability may decline, leading to increased prices and shortages for local populations. This creates an ethical dilemma, as the pursuit of profit often comes at the expense of vulnerable communities.

In conclusion, while long-distance food transportation offers economic and consumer benefits, its environmental repercussions, ethical concerns, and impact on local economies cannot be ignored. To address these challenges, governments and consumers should prioritize sustainable practices such as supporting local produce, reducing waste, and adopting greener logistics technologies. By balancing globalization with sustainability, we can create a food system that meets global needs without compromising the planet’s future.

Vocabulary in the sample of Food travels thousands of miles from farm to consumers

1. Efficiency /ɪˈfɪʃənsi/
   • Sentence: “The new machinery improved the factory’s efficiency significantly.”
2. Competitively /kəmˈpɛtɪtɪvli/
   • Sentence: “The company priced its products competitively to attract more customers.”
3. Repercussions /ˌriːpərˈkʌʃənz/
   • Sentence: “The policy had unforeseen repercussions on the local economy.”
4. Sustainable /səˈsteɪnəbl/
   • Sentence: “Sustainable energy sources are essential for combating climate change.”
5. Carbon footprint /ˈkɑːrbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/
   • Sentence: “The airline is working to reduce its carbon footprint by adopting greener fuels.”

Advanced Grammar Structures

1. Complex Sentences with Concession Clauses
   • Example: “While it brings certain benefits, I believe its negative consequences outweigh its advantages.”
   • Impact: Shows a nuanced understanding of both sides of the argument, enhancing the essay’s critical depth.
2. Use of Relative Clauses
   • Example: “Countries with favorable climates and lower labor costs can grow fruits, vegetables, and grains more competitively.”
   • Impact: Adds specificity and detail, which is crucial for a high band score.
3. Passive Voice
   • Example: “The environmental impact of this practice cannot be overlooked.”
   • Impact: Highlights objectivity and shifts focus to the action rather than the subject.
4. Noun Phrases for Emphasis
   • Example: “The concept of ‘food miles’ highlights the carbon footprint associated with these logistics.”
   • Impact: Demonstrates advanced vocabulary and creates a formal tone.
5. Conditional Sentences
   • Example: “If significant portions of a nation’s produce are allocated for export, domestic availability may decline.”
   • Impact: Allows for discussion of hypothetical scenarios, adding depth to the analysis.

Writing Format and Band 9 Features

1. Clear and Focused Introduction
   • The introduction introduces the topic, establishes the main argument, and outlines the essay’s structure.
2. Coherent Organization
   • Each paragraph addresses a specific point, with logical transitions (e.g., However, Additionally).
3. Balanced Analysis
   • The essay evaluates both benefits and drawbacks, showcasing critical thinking and impartiality.
4. Sophisticated Vocabulary
   • Academic words such as efficiency, repercussions, and sustainable enhance lexical resource.
5. Error-Free Grammar and Varied Sentence Structures
   • The essay uses a range of sentence types and grammatical forms without errors.

By combining critical analysis, precise language, and advanced grammar, this essay exemplifies the qualities required for a Band 9 score.

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