Pangan

Pangan is a term used in Indonesian and Malay to denote food or nourishment. It is commonly employed in formal or technical discourse to refer to the broad category of edible substances essential for human sustenance, while everyday speech often uses the word makanan. In policy and public discourse, phrases such as pangan pokok (staple foods), stok pangan (food stocks), and keamanan pangan (food safety) illustrate its practical use.

Etymology and usage: The word pangan originates from Austronesian language traditions and has been incorporated into modern Indonesian and Malay to emphasize nourishment and availability. Its usage spans agriculture, nutrition, and economic policy, signaling the broader food system beyond mere eating.

Scope and components: Pangan encompasses a range of edible items produced and consumed, including staple grains like rice in many Southeast Asian contexts, as well as tubers, fruits, vegetables, and animal products. The concept also covers nutritional quality, safety, and the economic and environmental dimensions of food systems, such as production, distribution, and access.

Production and policy: Agricultural production, supply chains, and trade affect pangan availability and pricing. Climate change, land use, water resources, and population growth influence pangan security. Government and institutional policies—such as agricultural support, import mechanisms, food safety standards, and nutrition programs—aim to ensure affordable, safe, and adequate pangan for the population.

Global context: Discussions of pangan intersect with food security, sustainable farming, and nutrition. Cultural practices and regional culinary traditions shape pangan preferences and dietary patterns, while issues like malnutrition, micronutrient gaps, and waste remain central to policy and public health considerations.