Higher food prices around the world have provoked protests and even riots in several countries.

The food crisis is real, and several nations have taken steps to prevent unrest, the Associated Press reports.

The Philippines government plans to distribute "rice access cards" to the needy so that they can purchase subsidized grain.

The world's largest exporter of rice is Thailand, which has proposed a rice cartel with Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia and Vietnam.

Malaysia subsidizes locally grown rice. Countries such as India, Vietnam and Nepal are restricting rice exports.

Farmers in Bangladesh are demanding more productive seeds. They also seek less expensive fertilizers, insecticide and fuel.

In Burkina Faso, the government scrapped duties and taxes on all products used in feeding children. Ethiopia dispensed subsidized wheat in city centers. Senegal has brokered a deal with India to ensure the African country has rice for the next six years.

In South America: soldiers distribute food in Peru's shantytowns. Brazil has banned export of the government's rice stocks. Argentina has imposed export taxes on soy and beef. Bolivia's government is selling rice at discounted prices.

Guyana's government has distributed seeds and instructed people to sow them on idle land and in gardens. Venezuela, Cuba, Bolivia and Nicaragua recently announced a $100 million food fund.

Other countries are taking precautions to ensure that their people are provided for despite high prices and potential food shortages.