Stat: New study reveals forced labour occurring in US food supply chain

US – A recent study published in the journal Nature has shed light on a concerning issue in the US food industry. Contrary to popular belief, forced labour may be happening closer to home than previously suspected rather than solely in foreign countries.

The study found that 62% of food products, excluding seafood, sold in the US and produced through forced labour were likely to be manufactured in the country itself, with animal-based proteins, processed fruit and vegetables, and discretionary food such as sweeteners, coffee, wines and beer being the highest-risk categories. These findings indicate that the problem of forced labour exists in the US food supply chain, potentially affecting the health and wellbeing of those involved.

The authors highlighted the vulnerability of certain groups, such as migrant workers with precarious immigration status, who are at higher risk of being forced into labour due to their limited mobility and economic constraints. With nearly 28m people globally coerced into labour daily, according to The International Labour Organization, this study serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilant monitoring and prevention of forced labour practices. It also calls for more social justice movements, similar to those highlighted in our Activism Eating Market, to look at how to create opportunities and connect communities around provision and accessibility.