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In September 2026, the UK government issued a critical warning regarding domestic shopping habits and national food security. Due to the rising frequency of extreme weather events, officials are strongly advising citizens to begin stocking up on long-life products. This recommendation serves as a direct response to growing fears that the global food supply chain—the intricate network responsible for moving food from farms to supermarkets—could be easily disrupted.

Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle recently addressed these challenges, specifically identifying the natural climate phenomenon known as El Niño. She noted that these shifts in Pacific Ocean temperatures are expected to trigger more frequent and severe storms across the country. Although climate change is often perceived as a slow, gradual transition, these sudden and violent weather events can have an immediate impact on the logistics of food distribution. If the supply chain were to fail, many families might find themselves without access to essential items.

However, climate conditions are not the only threat to national resources. Officials have highlighted that the systems we depend on are under massive strain from various other factors, including cyber-attacks, disease outbreaks, and international conflicts. Consequently, the government suggests that individuals should gradually add non-perishable items to their weekly shopping. These products, such as canned vegetables, dried pasta, and rice, are referred to as long-life goods because they do not spoil quickly and can be stored for months or even years.

This guidance, which has been widely discussed in national media, emphasizes the necessity of preparation in an increasingly unpredictable world. If a larger portion of the population maintained a modest reserve of essentials at home, the intense pressure on supermarkets during a crisis would be significantly reduced. While considering such potential disruptions may be unsettling, experts argue that taking small, proactive steps is vital for building national resilience. By ensuring that household cupboards are well-stocked, families can better protect themselves against unforeseen challenges arising from both environmental and political instability.

1. What is the primary purpose of the government’s recent advice?

• A.To explain the scientific causes of the El Niño phenomenon.
• B.To encourage citizens to prepare for potential food supply interruptions.
• C.To blame international conflicts for the rising price of groceries.
• D.To announce new regulations for local supermarkets.

2. According to Dame Angela Eagle, how does El Niño affect the UK?

• A.It causes a gradual increase in average yearly temperatures.
• B.It leads to a permanent change in the Pacific Ocean’s chemistry.
• C.It is likely to result in more frequent and violent storms.
• D.It prevents farmers from planting crops during the spring.

3. What can be inferred about the ‘supply chain’ from the text?

• A.It is a simple process that rarely experiences problems.
• B.It is only affected by weather-related events.
• C.It is a vulnerable system involving many different stages.
• D.It is managed entirely by the UK Environment Secretary.

4. What is the experts’ attitude toward the public’s potential anxiety about this news?

• A.They believe people are overreacting to minor issues.
• B.They think it is a natural reaction but emphasize the need for action.
• C.They are surprised that the news has caused so much alarm.
• D.They suggest that the government should have kept the information secret.

5. In the final paragraph, what does the word ‘resilience’ most likely mean?

• A.The speed at which supermarkets can restock their shelves.
• B.The ability of a country to recover from or withstand difficulties.
• C.The amount of money the government spends on food security.
• D.The variety of non-perishable goods available in shops.