The term "globalisation" was probably coined in the 1980s, yet over 20 years on it is still difficult to absorb all of the many and varied issues that are associated with this particular phenomenon. Beyond the shocking front-page images of violent "anti-capitalist" demonstrations, globalisation is a reality that, for better or worse, touches all our lives in ways the majority of us never stop to think about.

Whether you are in favour of the growth of huge transnational companies or not, what is certain is that growing levels of international travel, migration and economic activity mean that many of today's environmental health pressures operate at a global level - and environmental health problems do not respect man-made borders. In this sense, it is crucial that modern environmental health policy recognises both its international influence and implications. This month's special look at globalisation, public health and food security aims to set you thinking about the consequences, both here and abroad, of the globalisation process.

Jill Stewart opens the debate with an analysis of what globalisation really means, and how it interconnects with public health. Then Fiona Bushell looks at food security issues; in particular how globalisation is contributing to feeding the wealthy and leaving the poor to suffer. Food for thought indeed. On a different note, Euan MacAuslan has studied the variety of languages spoken among the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea's food workers. He argues that accessible food hygiene training is not readily available for those workers in the hospitality industry who speak English as a foreign language, and puts forward some recommendations.

Finally, it seems that food scandals are never out of the press these days, so, Nick Warburton investigates the scale of illegal meat imports to the UK and the complexities involved in improving the current system of checks.

Tracey Khanna, Editor