What is the FAO Food Price Index?

The FAO Food Price Index is approximately 120.4, tracking international prices for cereals, oils, meat, dairy, and sugar.

Are food prices returning to normal?

Prices have declined from the 2022 peak but remain elevated above pre-pandemic levels, with climate events and geopolitical tensions continuing to affect markets.

Global Average Food Price Index

Q: When did food prices peak?

Food prices peaked at 159.7 in March 2022 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which disrupted global grain and fertilizer supplies.

Last updated: January 30, 2026

120.4

index

The FAO Food Price Index is approximately 120.4, using 2014-2016 as the base period (100). The index peaked at 159.7 in March 2022 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which disrupted global grain supplies.

Historical Trend

Source: FAO

Why This Average Exists

The Food Price Index tracks global food affordability and is an early warning system for food crises that can trigger hunger, migration, and social unrest.

Factors That Affect Global Average Food Price Index

Climate events
Conflict and trade disruptions
Energy prices
Currency fluctuations
Biofuel demand
Supply chain disruptions

Frequently Asked Questions

Methodology & Data Sources

The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.

Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2024–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.

All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.