Fødevareforsyningen

Fødevareforsyningen refers to the Danish system that ensures a stable, safe and affordable supply of food for the population. It covers the entire chain from production and import to processing, distribution and retail, as well as regulatory measures that safeguard food safety, labeling and consumer access. The overarching goal is to maintain continuous access to nutritious food at reasonable prices, including resilience to disruptions caused by crises, weather events, or global market shocks.

Governance and actors: The system is steered by national authorities within the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, together with regulatory agencies such as Fødevarestyrelsen, and input from farmers, processors, distributors and retailers. It operates in line with Danish and European Union rules on food safety, veterinary controls, and market regulation where applicable. In times of emergency, cooperation with the Danish Emergency Management Agency and other civil protection bodies is activated.

Policy tools and preparedness: Regulatory oversight, inspections, safety standards and labeling requirements form the core of everyday governance, while instruments for stabilizing prices or ensuring supply may be used as needed. Strategic stock management and diversification of import sources are part of contingency planning to prevent shortages.

History and context: The concept has roots in postwar food security and has evolved with agricultural policy and EU integration, placing greater emphasis on safety, sustainability and resilience in supply chains. Ongoing challenges include climate impacts, international trade volatility and changing consumer demand.

See also: Food security, supply chain resilience, European Union agricultural policy.