A steady growth in food production in the developing countries since 1950 was accompanied by increased use of land and water resources and by the application of new technologies in agricultural production. Rapid population growth in the developing countries, growth in per capita income, relative stability of food prices--except during the 1970's--and government policies influenced world food demand. Malnutrition continues to be a problem for many vulnerable groups in the developing countries. U.S. development assistance policy should focus attention on the following: nutrition and other aspects of wellbeing in relation to U.S. security interests in developing countries, agricultural policies, development and dissemination of technology, and U.S. aid in relation to international lending programs.