Questioning the validity of a description suggestive of an unpreventable natural phenomenon, Astrid von Kotze explores the factors behind the onset of an ostensible ‘silent tsunami’ driving the world food crisis. Addressing core issues around global disparities in consumption and problematising received Malthusian wisdoms, the author argues that food encompasses far more than the purchase of mere commodities, reflecting social relations, use of the environment, and control of resources.