Transforming food systems is key to ensuring healthier diets for all. A new research brief from the Centre for Food Policy outlines 42 evidence-based policies and actions that can help improve food availability, affordability, and appeal while reducing the consumption of unhealthy processed foods.

The Role of Food Systems in Nutrition

Food systems play a fundamental role in shaping dietary habits worldwide. As the burden of malnutrition, obesity, and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) increases, food policies must be reoriented toward healthier outcomes. This research brief highlights key policies that target every stage of the food system—from agricultural production to consumer education—to improve public health.

The Centre for Food Policy, in collaboration with Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) and Johns Hopkins University, analyzed major international reports to identify 42 impactful actions that can make food systems work for better nutrition. These actions are categorized into key areas:

Key Policy Areas and Recommended Actions

1. Agricultural and Trade Policies

• Support farmers and agricultural producers in growing and marketing more nutritious crops.
• Redesign development programs to focus on both food production and nutrition education.
• Provide women farmers with agricultural training and resources to improve productivity.
• Encourage the cultivation and consumption of indigenous, nutrient-rich crops through incentives and subsidies.
• Implement trade policies that prioritize the import/export of healthier foods while discouraging the sale of ultra-processed products.

2. Supply Chain and Infrastructure Improvements

• Build better transportation, storage, and distribution networks to enhance food safety and reduce waste.
• Support e-commerce and digital platforms to connect consumers with fresh, nutritious foods.
• Improve food markets in low-income communities, ensuring affordability and safety.
• Reduce food waste through better infrastructure, redistribution programs, and waste management policies.

3. Financial and Business Incentives

• Redirect agricultural subsidies to promote the production of healthier foods instead of refined staples.
• Provide financial incentives for businesses to develop and promote healthier food options.
• Offer tax incentives and cost-sharing programs for companies that provide nutritious food options to employees.
• Tax sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods to discourage excessive consumption.

4. Regulations and Public Policies

• Enforce food labeling regulations to indicate high levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.
• Implement restrictions on junk food advertising, particularly targeting children.
• Limit the number of fast-food outlets in certain areas to reduce access to unhealthy food.
• Establish and enforce food safety standards across the supply chain to ensure high-quality nutrition.

5. Public Awareness and Education

• Introduce nutrition education programs in schools, workplaces, and communities.
• Provide dietary counseling for pregnant women to encourage healthier eating habits.
• Launch mass media campaigns to promote balanced diets and the benefits of whole foods.
• Support and preserve traditional food cultures that emphasize healthy, local ingredients.

6. National Food Guidelines

• Align food system policies with national dietary guidelines to ensure consistency in public health messaging.
• Encourage collaboration between governments, health organizations, and private sectors to promote sustainable, nutritious food choices.

Next Steps: Implementing These Policies

To ensure real impact, these 42 policies and actions must be integrated into national and global food systems strategies. The Food Systems Dashboard will be used to track progress and assess the effectiveness of these interventions. Additionally, further research will explore the synergies between nutrition, environmental sustainability, and economic livelihoods.

By adopting these comprehensive food system policies, governments and organizations can take significant steps toward a healthier, more sustainable, and accessible food environment for all.

📄 For more details, please refer to the attached document.