FOOD ACCESS IN THE EUROPEAN UNION COUNTRIES – AN ECONOMIC PERSPECTIVE

Due to the emerging economic uncertainty and changing customs policies, there is a risk of making food availability more difficult. This would have consequences not only for the population's ability to purchase different food products, but also for the country's economic development. Food supply restrictions do not encourage local producers to operate efficiently, but at the same time they have a negative effect on prices for consumers. The article analyzes the provision of food availability in the countries of the European Union (EU), identifies the most important factors determining its provision. The EU is faced with problems arising from excessive subsidization of the agricultural sector and unbalanced imports of certain products. This mainly affects vulnerable individuals who are looking for the cheapest products. In order to determine the influence of factors ensuring food availability in EU countries, a research methodology has been developed that includes a system of indicators at national levels. It has been established that the greatest influence on ensuring food availability is food prices and income of the population, especially affecting people living in poverty.