An increasing number of interdisciplinary activities on ethics are being undertaken by FAO. FAO Readings in Ethics is a new series, which brings together the results of such activities, carried out as an integral part of the Organization's regular programme of work. The series complements the FAO Ethics Series and the Reports of the Panel of Experts on Ethics in Food and Agriculture. Freedom from hunger has been designated as a fundamental human right. Food safety is an intrinsic part of the concept of the right to adequate food. In situations of food crises is it ethically acceptable that food safety standards be lower for food aid than for food trade? This report discusses the question in depth.