There is no question that increased demand for corn to be used in ethanol production has helped drive corn prices – although there are other factors, such as increased exports.

It is correct that in less developed countries the price of raw commodities has a larger impact on actual food prices than it does here in the US or in other developed countries. And it is also true that higher prices for some commodities will result in alternative choices for consumers and livestock producers.

Simple economics also will tell you that what goes up must come down. Food prices do fluctuate – even gas prices do. Although there is no way to tell when or how, most economists agree that the current food price situation is short term – maybe two years at the most – before the market works itself out.

Arable land devoted to food production is the commodity whose use (or misuse) is forcing the increase in food pricing. Even “energy crops” disrupt the food supply when grown on soils typically assigned to food production.

Surrogate commodities pricing will reflect immediately increased corn prices. Flour tortillas will replace corn tortillas. Farmers will feed livestock other grains. Rice or perhaps a potato will replace corn on the cob. All of these will increase in price. It is simple economics. To expect otherwise is delusional.

William Winfield