The global food crisis is inspiring a broad new coalition on Capitol Hill seeking to change US policies on ethanol production.

Interests ranging from US food manufacturers and livestock producers to environmentalists, humanitarian aid agencies and consumer groups are calling for Congress to rethink so-called “food to fuel” mandates that would require the US to use 9bn gallons of ethanol this year. Critics say the mandates are driving up the price of corn, wheat and other grains, leading to record global food prices and political instability.