Rethinking “Enough”: From Food Security to Nutrition-Driven Sustainable Food Systems

Abstract

For decades, food policy has primarily focused on progress made in the alleviation of hunger by looking at the volume of food available, and the average caloric intake per person of a given population. However, having enough calories does not mean having enough vitamins and minerals (micronutrients). This also does not translate to having a healthy diet or the avoidance of diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Accordingly, this viewpoint argues the focus needs to shift from the concept of food security to the concept of nutrition security and in parallel the formulation of a nutritionally sustainable food system within the boundaries of the planet.

(NCDs). Accordingly, this viewpoint argues the focus needs to shift from the concept of food security to the concept of nutrition security and in parallel the formulation of a nutritionally sustainable food system within the boundaries of the planet.

Combining the available literature on food and nutrition security theory, the health implications of food insecurity, the documentation of hidden hunger, the governance reforms and policy shifts of the food system, we propose adjusting the previously mentioned three pivot points to operationalize the following solution pathways: (1) adjust the metrics used to define and measure sufficient caloric intake to include measures of dietary quality and the presence of sufficient micronutrient intake; (2) strengthen the integration of immediate social protection measures with, or food security focused climate change and sustainability measures; (3) strengthen the governance mechanisms of participation by ensuring active, direct involvement of citizens in the decision-making processes concerning their food systems.