Food systems and diets: Facing the challenges of the 21st century
This report (PDF) by Global Panel generates a new understanding of diets and food systems, and how they could change by 2030. The analysis shows that if current trends continue, by 2030 nearly half of the world’s adult population will be overweight or obese, up from one third today. The poorest countries are not immune to these trends. The report also shows how these trends have economic impacts at the macro and micro levels, as well as consequences for mortality and morbidity. For example, at the macro level, cost are estimated to represent an annual loss of 10% global GDP, equivalent to a global financial crisis every year. The report presents evidence showing that the risk that poor diets pose to mortality and morbidity is now greater than the combined risks of unsafe sex, alcohol, drug and tobacco use. Drawing on over 250 data sources and peer-reviewed articles, the report lists a series of recommendations for policymakers in low and middle income countries through a ‘Call to Action’. It identifies decisions that policymakers need to take in the coming decade, particularly for women and children, to invest in effective policies to reduce all forms of malnutrition, repositioning food systems from feeding people to nourishing people.