Articles tagged with Food Policy
A 30-year study in Brazil found that increased ultra-processed food consumption is linked to worsened environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions, water footprint, and ecological footprint. Experts warn that this trend may soon affect other countries due to growing economies and nutrition transitions.
A recent study published by the University of Ottawa found that over 1 in 20 Canadian children do not eat lunch on school days, with older kids and those from food-insecure households being the most affected. The study also reveals that children living in food-insecure households are twice as likely to miss lunch compared to their peers.
Consumer definitions of sustainability differ from industry definitions, affecting perception and purchase intent. Consumer perspectives consider multiple factors like packaging, animal welfare, organic status, and grass-fed systems, with some associating terms like 'organic' with healthier practices.
A study found that only a third of public health policies had been fully implemented globally by 2020, with low-income countries and those with high corporate influence showing slow progress. The researchers suggest that corporate influence cancelled out the positive relationship between democracy and implementation, highlighting the n...
Adding more fruit and veggie side dishes resulted in a 24% increase in veggies and 33% more fruit, while substituting produce for other foods led to a 41% boost in veggies and 38% more fruit. The study suggests ways parents and caregivers can encourage healthy eating by experimenting with different fruits and vegetables.
A study by IIASA researchers and Chinese colleagues highlights the need for sustainable food production in China to avoid environmental destruction. The global impact of China's increasing food demand is expected to be substantial, with significant challenges facing trading partners, particularly those involved in livestock products.
An 18-year study found a significant increase in ultra-processed food consumption among US adults, contributing to obesity and chronic diseases. The study recommends policies to reduce ultra-processed food intake, such as revised dietary guidelines and taxes.
A study in Nature Communications finds that strong El Niño events can drive nearly 6 million children into undernutrition, affecting 70% or more of children globally. Proactive climate action could prevent this tragedy by providing targeted interventions to vulnerable areas.
A new analysis of 134 studies found that color-coded nutrition labels and warnings encourage more healthful purchases. The study suggests that these labeling systems are beneficial in nudging consumers towards foods with lower levels of energy, sodium, fat, and saturated fat.
A new report by International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) suggests that accelerated adaptation can substantially reduce Egypt’s food production losses from climate change. Climate change-induced biophysical crop stress could lead to a 10% reduction in food crop yields by 2050, but investing in agricultural research and devel...
Millions of Europeans depend on fishing for food and livelihood, with ocean warming affecting fish distribution and abundance. Regional differences in climate risk highlight the need for locally adapted approaches, including social safety nets and income support.
A legal analysis examines whether the First Amendment restricts the FDA's requirement of new tobacco warning labels. The study concludes that such labels do not infringe on the First Amendment rights to free speech, as they convey important public health information.
The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened food insecurity, particularly among families with children, with nearly 18% of households reporting low or very low food security. NYU researchers are developing a technological solution to reduce food insecurity and waste, including a mobile app called Food2Share.
The Sustainable Agriculture Matrix provides a comprehensive assessment of agricultural sustainability at a national level, considering environmental, economic, and social impacts. The framework helps governments and organizations evaluate progress, identify priorities for improvement, and inform policies towards sustainable agriculture.
A study by New York University researchers found that infant formula websites predominantly discourage breastfeeding and instead tout the benefits of formula feeding. The analysis of five major formula brands' websites revealed that substantial messaging focused on challenges associated with breastfeeding, such as low milk supply or la...
The study found that policies promoting comprehensive nitrogen mitigation options could alleviate hunger by 590 million people by 2050. Increasing nitrogen use efficiency in agronomic practices is the most effective strategy to reduce undernourishment while respecting regional nitrogen boundaries.
The study found that store-wide confectionery sales decreased and fruit and vegetable sales increased when unhealthy products were removed from checkouts and aisles, resulting in nearly 10,000 extra portions of fruit and vegetables being sold weekly.
The Agrobiodiversity Index reveals that globally, biodiversity and agrobiodiversity are in decline, with only a fraction of species contributing to crop production. Maintaining diversity is vital for achieving sustainable food systems.
A comprehensive review found that site-specific nutrient management (SSNM) increases yield by 12% and profitability by 15%, while saving 18 kg N/ha and reducing environmental risk. SSNM can detect and correct long-standing nutrient input inadequacies, improving outcomes.
Researchers at the University of Bath found that large food companies and advertisers opposed Transport for London's 2019 ban, challenging its effectiveness and attempting to undermine policy. The ban was implemented despite commercial opposition, and its success sets a positive precedent for other authorities planning similar bans.
A global food panel could bring together scientists, governments and stakeholders to tackle food insecurity, climate change and health crises. However, its legitimacy and impact depend on ensuring diverse knowledge participation and inclusive governance.
A study found that 95% of fungal species on Earth remain undescribed, leading to inconsistent regulations and potential health risks. The researchers tested 16 food products labeled as containing 'wild mushrooms' and discovered most consisted of cultivated species, including poisonous varieties.
A new study found that Chile's package of healthy food policies led to significant declines in the purchase of unhealthy foods and drinks. The implementation of mandatory front-of-package warning labels resulted in a 24% reduction in calories, sugar, saturated fat, and sodium purchased per day.
A study found that UK policies to reduce salt, sugar and calories in food products have not led to improvements in their nutritional values. Only one company, Kelloggs, showed a small overall improvement, driven by reducing sugar content in two products.
Scientists propose integrated strategy combining climate action with policies for development, food access, equity, and environmental sustainability. The Sustainable Development Pathway aims to reconcile decent living with ecological boundaries.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Nutrition found that consuming millet as part of a daily diet can reduce blood glucose levels by 12-15% and help manage diabetes. The research, which analyzed data from over 1,000 human subjects across 11 countries, also found that millets have a lower glycemic index compared to other grains.
A new IIASA-led study assesses future global food security projections, finding food demand will increase by 35-56% over 2010-2050, mainly due to population growth. To prevent environmental impacts, policymakers must develop long-term measures, including stimulating inclusive growth.
The article highlights a new book that advocates for a human rights framework to be central to the planning of post-COVID UK social policy. The authors argue that this approach prioritizes medical care, food, housing, and digital technology, which are essential for addressing inequality and ensuring equity, justice, and sustainability.
A new study by researchers at the International Food Policy Research Institute found that women who received free meals in primary school have children with improved linear growth. The Mid-Day Meal (MDM) scheme, the largest school feeding program in the world, has been shown to have long-term benefits on nutrition.
A new study proposes restructuring SNAP into a Universal Basic Income (UBI) program to eliminate food insecurity. The plan would significantly reduce food insecurity rates, especially among vulnerable groups, and could be funded through targeted tax increases.
A team of researchers from Penn State and Northern Arizona University developed a statistical risk model linking supply chain diversity to the probability of a city experiencing food shocks. The study found that higher diversity in the supply chain leads to lower probabilities of food shock, highlighting the importance of diversifying ...
The fast-food industry's annual ad spending increased by over $400 million since 2012, with children viewing an average of two fast food TV ads per day. The advertisements disproportionately targeted Black and Hispanic youth, groups who already face greater risk for obesity.
A new global analysis reveals that greenhouse-gas emissions from food systems have long been systematically underestimated, with the equivalent of 16 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide produced in 2018. The study highlights the need for integrating research with efforts to reduce emissions and emphasizes the importance of considerin...
A new campaign seeks the wisdom of the crowd to drive innovative solutions for sustainable food systems. Data will be integral to understanding current and future food systems, but asking the right questions first is key.
A recent international study found that over 50% of adults across six countries report experiencing weight stigma, leading to negative healthcare encounters and avoidance. The study highlights the need for a global effort to address weight stigma in healthcare settings and family environments.
Research from Cornell University reveals that even slight grocery tax-rate increases can exacerbate food insecurity among low-income households. The study found a correlation between increased tax rates and higher likelihoods of hunger in households.
The IFSS portal offers over 100 innovative solutions to improve nutrition, restore the environment, and promote social equity. It provides a platform for collaboration and access to information about game-changing solutions.
A new study projects that climate change will exacerbate global food and hunger challenges, leading to increased mortality and disability. Researchers suggest that investing in agricultural R&D, irrigation systems, and market access could help mitigate these impacts.
A study by UT Southwestern Medical Center and economists at the University of Dallas found that consistent use of food pantries can improve food security, health, and well-being. The researchers calculated a 10 percentage-point increase in pantry visits led to a 5.7% reduced likelihood of food insecurity.
A study from Cornell University found that women's increased agricultural labor during harvest season leads to decreased nutritional intake. Women who work longer hours on farms experience a loss of up to 112 calories and essential nutrients.
A study found that 79% of households are willing to pay extra for cropping diversification, valuing agroecosystem services and socio-cultural benefits. The total non-market value of cropping diversification can be up to 47-95% compared to annual market revenues.
A new approach is needed to tackle diet-related diseases and disparities in nutrition quality, experts argue. The US should prioritize 'nutrition security' over 'food security', emphasizing access to healthy, nourishing food for all, to effectively address modern health challenges.
Researchers found that alternative seafood networks (ASNs) experienced unprecedented growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, as consumers temporarily relocalize their seafood purchases. This growth underscores the importance of functional diversity in supply chains and regional food systems for resilience, with policy changes and data col...
A new study found that healthy plant-based diets rich in leafy greens, whole grains, and beans lower overall stroke risk, but not hemorrhagic stroke risk. The study suggests that future nutrition policies should consider the quality of food to reduce stroke risk.
Researchers at MU found cognitive biases can create and worsen foodborne disease outbreaks, with motivated blindness and omission bias contributing to the Jensen Farms outbreak. The study emphasizes the importance of considering unconscious motivations in outbreak prevention policies.
Research reveals that low-income families in the UK are aware of healthy diets, yet face significant barriers in accessing nutritious food due to financial constraints. The study highlights the need for policies addressing poverty and geographical access to address food insecurity.
A University of Texas at Arlington assistant professor is leading a study on making 'farm to table' more sustainable by examining peri-urban farming in central Iowa. The goal is to produce 50% of Des Moines residents' nutritional needs and reduce environmental impact.
A new study published in the American Journal of Public Health examines the impact of state preemption laws on local sugar-sweetened beverage taxes. The research reveals that since 2017, four states have passed laws preempting local SSB tax policies, with three of them passing within an average of just 29 days.
The UK's first national lockdown from March 2020 caused a massive shift in consumer habits, with shops and restaurants experiencing huge fluctuations in sales. Online sales peaked during lockdown, but remained above pre-lockdown levels in August 2020, suggesting a potential long-term impact on shopping habits.
Researchers found that human-as-machine representations can lead to unhealthy food choices among consumers with low confidence in their ability to make rational decisions. Adding reassuring messages can increase healthy food choice by 22%. The study highlights the need for a nuanced approach to public health strategies.
The article highlights the potential of fish as a solution to global malnutrition and hunger. Scientists argue that viewing fish as more than just a natural resource can help alleviate poverty and improve nutrition, especially for vulnerable communities. The authors suggest four pillars for action: improving metrics, promoting nutritio...
Researchers analyzed fast-food exposure near schools and found no association with childhood weight gain. Despite concerns about the role of fast food in obesity, the study suggests that simple exposure is not a primary driver of excess weight gain.
A new study by FAO and University of Twente reveals that small cities and towns play a significant role in shaping food systems, social development, and economic growth. The research highlights the need for greater coordination between urban and rural administrative authorities to address unequal access to services and employment oppor...
A new study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that exposure to small grocery stores with healthier inventories is associated with significant improvements in childhood obesity. In contrast, increased availability of convenience stores selling predominantly unhealthy foods was linked to a higher li...
A new study by Dartmouth researchers calls for stricter regulations on commercial educational websites that expose children to unhealthy food marketing. The team visited popular sites and found ads for sugary cereals and packaged kids' meals, prompting companies like McDonald's and Kellogg to pledge to stop marketing on these platforms.
A new study investigates the closure of a marine area in the Pacific Ocean to fishing, revealing that it could drive up offshore fish prices and increase tourists' consumption of reef fish. However, offering tourists a local and sustainable offshore fish choice can avoid environmental impacts on nearshore reef ecosystems.
The adoption of Front-of-Package (FOP) nutrition labeling in a product category results in significant improvements in nutritional quality. Manufacturers increase nutrient reduction by lowering calorie content and limiting key nutrients like sugar, sodium, and saturated fat.
A new study suggests that incorporating wrinkled 'super peas' into foods, such as whole pea seeds or flour, could help tackle the global type 2 diabetes epidemic by preventing 'sugar spikes'. The research found that consuming these peas resulted in a more stable increase in blood sugar levels compared to regular peas.
A study published in JAMA Network Open found that reducing nicotine levels in cigarettes decreases addictiveness, particularly among those with mental illness and socioeconomic disadvantage. The research suggests that lower nicotine content could lead to policy changes benefiting all smokers, especially the most vulnerable.
Cities are crucial actors in tackling food waste, launching effective policies and initiatives to address it. A new framework for assessing urban food waste policies and initiatives has been presented, highlighting the importance of integrated management and multi-actorial collaboration.