Imported Food in Supermarkets: Positive or Negative Development

In many countries nowadays, consumers can go to a supermarket and buy food produced all over the world. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

Annotated response

10 correction notes

Showing 10 correction notes.

In numerous countries today, consumers have the convenience of purchasing food from various parts of the globe in local supermarkets. This trend presents both positive and negative aspects.

the availability of international food products significantly . For instance, people can enjoy exotic fruits like from New Zealand or spices from India, which would otherwise be unavailable locally. This access not only enriches the culinary experience but also allows consumers to maintain a diverse and nutritious diet . the economic benefit derived from global trade. By importing food, countries can support farmers and producers from different regions, boosting the global economy and creating job opportunities in the logistics and retail sectors . Thus, the international food market in supermarkets greatly benefits both consumers and the economy.

this development also several drawbacks. One significant concern is the environmental impact of transporting food over . For example, the carbon footprint associated with shipping fruits from one continent to another is substantial, contributing to climate change and environmental degradation . the potential threat to local agriculture. Local farmers may find it challenging to compete with cheaper imported goods , leading to a decline in local food production and loss of agricultural heritage . These negative effects highlight the importance of considering environmental sustainability and the well-being of local producers when evaluating this trend.

In conclusion, while the global availability of food in supermarkets offers increased variety and economic benefits , it also poses environmental challenges and risks to local agriculture.

Overall assessment

Why this response received Band 7.0

The response presents well-developed arguments on both sides of the question with relevant examples and generally clear organisation, supported by a varied range of vocabulary and accurate grammar. Its main limitation is the absence of an explicit personal position, as the balanced conclusion stops short of stating whether the development is overall positive or negative.

IELTS criteria

How each score was decided

Task Response

6.5

The response addresses the question with relevant, developed ideas and examples on both benefits and drawbacks, but it does not commit to a clear overall position, which the direct question requires.

Coherence and Cohesion

7.0

Ideas are logically organised into clear paragraphs with effective sequencing and cohesive devices, and progression is easy to follow throughout.

Lexical Resource

7.0

The response uses a flexible range of vocabulary, including topic-appropriate items such as carbon footprint and agricultural heritage, with generally good precision and only minor slips.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

7.0

A variety of complex structures is used with good control, and frequent error-free sentences convey meaning clearly, with only minor inaccuracies such as spacing before punctuation.