Re: PING! Michael

D wrote:

 
 
On Wed, 27 Nov 2024, Janet wrote:
 

In article <vi7ntb$47u7$1@dont-email.me>, cshenk@virginia-
beach.com says...

Overall, we export far more than we import.
 

No, you don't. It's the other way round.  Try to keep up.
 
https://www.farmcrediteast.com/en/resources/Industry-
Trends-and-Outlooks/Reports/202407KEP_AgTradeDeficit
 
Janet UK

 
Read carefully!
 
Is the US self-sufficient when it comes to food production?
 
The United States is largely self-sufficient in food production,
producing a significant amount of its own food and being one of the
largest food exporters globally. To understand this assertion, we can
break down the concept of food self-sufficiency into several key
components: domestic production capacity, import levels, and export
capabilities.
 
Domestic Production Capacity
 
The U.S. has a vast agricultural landscape that allows for the
cultivation of a wide variety of crops and livestock. The country
benefits from diverse climates and soil types, which enable the
growth of numerous agricultural products ranging from grains like
corn and wheat to fruits, vegetables, and livestock. This diversity
contributes to a robust domestic food supply capable of meeting the
needs of its population.
 
In fact, as of recent data, the U.S. imports only about 20% of the
food consumed domestically. This relatively low percentage indicates
that the majority of food consumed by Americans is produced within
the country itself. The ability to produce such a large volume of
food is supported by advanced agricultural technologies, extensive
research in crop genetics (including genetically engineered crops),
and efficient farming practices.
 
Import Levels
 
While the U.S. does import some food items—primarily specialty
products that are not grown domestically or are more cost-effective
to import—the overall reliance on imports is minimal compared to
other countries. For instance, nations like the United Kingdom import
nearly 40% of their food supply, while Hawaii relies heavily on
imports for up to 92% of its food needs due to geographical
constraints.
 
The limited level of imports reflects not only agricultural capacity
but also consumer preferences that can often be met by domestic
producers. The U.S. agricultural sector has adapted over time to meet
changing dietary trends and demands.
 
Export Capabilities
 
Moreover, the U.S. is one of the largest exporters of agricultural
products in the world. It exports significant quantities of corn,
soybeans, wheat, beef, pork, and poultry among other commodities.
This export capability further underscores its self-sufficiency; not
only does it produce enough food for its own population but it also
generates surplus that can be sold internationally.
 
The combination of high production levels and relatively low
dependence on imports positions the U.S. as a leader in global
agriculture. This self-sufficiency is crucial for national security
as it reduces vulnerability to international market fluctuations and
trade disruptions.
 
Conclusion
 
In summary, the U.S. is indeed self-sufficient when it comes to food
production, with a strong capacity for domestic agriculture that
meets most consumption needs while also allowing for substantial
exports.

The most glaring ones are not essential but highly desired.  Coffee.
Formerly grown only in Hawaii and Puerto Rico, PR's got badly damaged
by a hurricane but PR is coming back and California is getting into the
act.

<https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/food/2021/09/29/coffee-bean-us-growing-crops-california-florida/5815809001/>

Even if we make it, it will take time.  I gather the trees don't grow
to fruiting stage that quickly.

On tea:
<https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=06d2816226df49940f8c5401ecf98a8afbf82de5c39168b1d08abfc5b9b0e934JmltdHM9MTczMjc1MjAwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=36fa2589-ee4b-6436-3e23-37faef04655e&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvVGVhX3Byb2R1Y3Rpb25faW5fdGhlX1VuaXRlZF9TdGF0ZXM&ntb=1>

It's a niche market here but can be grown in large areas of the USA in
multiple types from traditional to alternative.  (I'm fond of an
alternative made of hybiscus and there are too many herbal ones to
count).

Cocoa for Chocolate.  I don't see as we've tried to grow it.
Basically whatever tariffs we might have to pay are the same as what we
pay now so: no change.

In summary on a food stance, the USA can only be 'bothered' but not
actually harmed on a food stance.