Recent weeks, (since) have seen Philippine(s) authority scramble(d) to augment rice stocks in the country, Indonesian officials warn(ed a) of possible social unrest due to skyrocketing prices for basic foodstuffs, (I raid J’s) irate Egyptians protesting bread shortages and international food aid programs unable to buy enough goods to meet their food distribution targets for vulnerable populations.

       These cases should not be viewed as isolated anomalies but rather as indicators of a global phenomenon, according to B of the Washington based earth policy institute.

       “In 7 of the last 8 years, world grain production has fallen short of consumption. (that be pointed) We have been pulling down world grain stocks until they are now (as the slower slavel on) at the lowest level in thirty four years.”

       Experts say several factors are to blame (by) a growing world population under(ling) investment (and) in agriculture technology, high petroleum prices, housing (in) and business development, crowding out farm lands, droughts and floods made more severe by climate change and growing demand for a limited supply (on) of fresh water.

       In addition, (greens) grains like corn once (grew) grown exclusively to feed humans and (life) livestock, are now being diverted into programs to generate ethanol and other so called biofuels as an alternative to oil and gasoline.

NEW WORDS:

irate愤怒的，发怒的，激怒的。
anomalies不规则，反常(现象)，
ethanol乙醇；酒精

livestock：家禽

foodstuff：粮食

TIPS:

       不断句，听的不好，小词：Egyptian，lowest level。