UN food prices remained mostly stable in May, with increases in cereal and sugar offset by declines in vegetable oils and dairy products. The Food and Agriculture Organization reported this balance masks underlying tensions in global supply chains that could disrupt food security worldwide.

The FAO index averaged 130.8 points last month, down 0.2% from its revised April level yet still 2.9% higher than a year ago. This modest stability belies significant regional variations and volatility in commodity markets, particularly affecting countries heavily dependent on food imports.

Growing threats to food markets include supply disruptions from the Middle East conflict and rising fertilizer costs. These factors create uncertainty for agricultural producers and food importers, potentially leading to price spikes that could impact vulnerable populations and strain global food systems.