Food quality and safety have become increasingly prominent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing frequently in recent years. This trend reflects growing global concerns about food security and public health, as discussed in the importance of sustainable agriculture in food security. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this topic has appeared in various forms, particularly focusing on government regulation and consumer protection.
Analysis of Common Question Types
One of the most frequently appearing question types related to food quality is:
Some people believe that governments should be responsible for ensuring food quality and safety, while others think this is the responsibility of food producers. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Analysis
- Topic: Food quality and safety responsibility
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key areas to cover: Government regulation, producer accountability, consumer protection
- Format: 4-5 paragraphs, 250-280 words
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-8.5)
The debate over who should bear primary responsibility for food safety has become increasingly significant, particularly as the impact of food deserts on nutrition continues to affect communities worldwide. While both governments and producers play crucial roles, I believe a collaborative approach is essential.
Those who advocate for government responsibility argue that state oversight is crucial for protecting public health. Government agencies possess the authority and resources to implement comprehensive inspection systems, enforce safety standards, and impose penalties on violators. Moreover, they can establish standardized guidelines that all food producers must follow, ensuring consistency across the industry.
Conversely, proponents of producer responsibility maintain that food companies should be accountable for their products’ quality. They argue that manufacturers have direct control over production processes, ingredient selection, and quality control measures. Additionally, market forces naturally encourage producers to maintain high standards, as their reputation and profitability depend on consumer trust.
In my view, ensuring food safety requires cooperation between both parties. Governments should establish regulatory frameworks and conduct regular inspections, while producers must implement rigorous quality control systems and maintain transparency in their operations. This dual approach creates a robust system where official oversight complements corporate responsibility, similar to how should governments implement stricter regulations on fast food advertising has shown positive results.
Government inspector examining food quality in manufacturing facility
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5-7)
Food safety is an important issue in modern society. Some people think governments should control food quality, while others believe food companies should do this job. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Government control of food quality has some advantages. First, governments have power to make laws and check if companies follow them. They can also punish companies that break rules. Second, government inspectors can regularly visit food factories to check conditions. This helps protect public health.
On the other hand, food producers should also be responsible. They make the food, so they know their processes best. If they make unsafe food, they will lose customers and money. Also, companies can test their products before selling them to make sure they are safe.
I think both governments and producers should work together for food safety. Governments should make rules and do inspections, while companies should follow these rules and check their own products. This will make food safer for everyone.
Key Vocabulary for Food Quality Essays
- Quality assurance (n) /ˈkwɒlɪti əˈʃʊərəns/ – systematic monitoring of processes
- Food contamination (n) /fuːd kənˌtæmɪˈneɪʃən/ – presence of harmful substances
- Regulatory framework (n) /ˈreɡjʊləˌtɔri ˈfreɪmwɜːk/ – system of regulations
- Compliance (n) /kəmˈplaɪəns/ – following rules and regulations
- Stringent (adj) /ˈstrɪndʒənt/ – strict, precise, and exacting
Future topics may include questions about organic food regulation, international food safety standards, or the role of technology in food quality control. Practice writing essays about should the government regulate genetically modified food production to strengthen your skills on this topic.
We encourage readers to practice writing their own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
