A Categorization Based Comparative Study of Food Security and Population in the World's Five Most Populous Countries

This research examines Global Food Security Index (GFSI) along with its components and population changes through comparative analysis for world's top five most populous countries (India, China, USA, Indonesia and Pakistan). This study utilizes innovative Theory of Categorization (ToC) to classify GFSI scores into groups i.e. poor, weak, normal, good and best. India's GFSI rank slightly dropped from 67 to 68 and categories weak, however its GFSI scores remains with in normal category. Availability, quality and safety (QS) moved from normal to good, while sustainability and adaptation (SA) improved from weak to normal. India needs to focus on all components with particular attention to affordability and SA. China improved GFSI ranks from 49 to 25 and categories good with significant gains in GFSI scores and its component. USA ranked at 13 in GFSI and categories best. Indonesia ranks 63, falls in the weak category. Affordability moved from good to best but sustained efforts are required in other components. Pakistan is ranked at 84, classified as poor with challenges in SA and QS. China and the USA are managing their populations, whereas unproductive population growth may threaten future food security, particularly for Pakistan, India and Indonesia. This research can assist countries in prioritizing their sectors to achieve food security and in conducting comparable assessments in other countries. Weak countries (Pakistan, Indonesia and India) should enhance food affordability, quality, sustainability, and manage population growth. Strong countries (China and USA) should sustain high standards and invest in sustainable practices and innovations.