Articles tagged with Food Policy
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A new algorithm developed by Cornell researchers improves the efficient distribution of food resources among patrons, boosting nutrition levels. The Food Bank of the Southern Tier saw a 7.73% increase in efficiency from 2018 to 2019 using the optimized allocation system.
A study published in The BMJ found that eating foods with a poor Nutri-Score score is associated with higher mortality rates from all causes and specific diseases. The findings support the use of Nutri-Score to guide people towards healthier food choices, which could inform discussions on uniform food labelling systems across Europe.
A study by Tufts University researchers estimates that some but not all US metro areas could grow all the food they need locally, based on population, geography, and diet. The modeling study suggests that reducing animal products in the diet can increase the potential to produce sufficient food for a metro area.
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated public health-related inequities among people of color in the US, particularly in NYC. A tracking survey revealed disparities in access to healthcare, employment, housing, food, and education among Black and Latinx New Yorkers.
The EAT-Lancet Report proposes a universal healthy reference diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, but implementing this change requires unprecedented global cooperation. Policymakers must prioritize food systems as a top development agenda to realize the recommendations laid out in the report.
A recent UNC-Chapel Hill study reveals that individuals with obesity are at a greatly increased risk for hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, and death from COVID-19. Obesity is associated with numerous underlying health conditions, including hypertension, heart disease, and Type 2 diabetes, which can impair immune function.
A new study found that children growing up at higher altitudes experience increased stunting rates, even in ideal-home environments. The research suggests that altitude affects growth during the perinatal period, and highlights the need for targeted health-care guidance and nutrition interventions.
Researchers develop a One Health framework to improve sustainability in the rapidly growing aquaculture industry, which now accounts for half of global seafood consumption. The strategy emphasizes metrics such as access to nutritious food, employment quality, and ecosystem health.
The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting all four pillars of food security, including availability, access, utilization, and stability, according to a new article. Income declines are putting food access at risk, particularly for the extreme poor, who spend 70% of their income on food.
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of agricultural technologies to ensure food supply security. Roboticized farms, vertical farming, and gene-edited foods are being used to reduce the risk of transmission of pathogens among workers and minimize reliance on human labor.
A high-level group of experts recommends strengthening federal nutrition research with improved coordination and investment to accelerate discoveries and reduce diet-related diseases. The new approach aims to generate critical science to rapidly treat and prevent diet-related diseases, improving public health and population resilience.
Researchers found that crowdsourced information gathered from mobile apps like Yelp can provide a more accurate real-time representation of food deserts in impoverished communities. The study suggests that the methods used by the USDA to identify areas with low access to healthy food are often outdated and narrow in scope.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated food insecurity and financial instability for low-income households, with many struggling to access affordable groceries and navigate online shopping systems.
Researchers are investigating the effects of pandemic-induced supply chain disruptions on local Colorado farmers and ranchers. They are also examining shifts in emergency food service provisions for low-income students.
Research by Cornell University found that electronic food vouchers, provided to Rohingya families through the United Nations' World Food Programme, allow for a greater range of nutritious foods. This led to improved height and weight gains among young children, as they were able to access more calorically and nutrient-dense foods.
A survey of Singaporeans found that those who dislike GM food tend to also reject nano-enabled food, highlighting the potential for a spillover effect in attitudes towards new technologies. The study's findings have implications for policymakers seeking to promote novel food technologies in Singapore.
A new study estimates that a national calorie menu labeling law will prevent tens of thousands of new heart disease and type 2 diabetes cases over five years. The law is expected to produce $10-14 billion in healthcare cost savings and another $3-5 billion in societal cost savings.
Nutrition experts urge a 'Moonshot' approach to strengthen federal nutrition research and policy, citing dire state of Americans' health and significant potential for new discoveries. The proposed strengthening of federal nutrition research aims to generate new discoveries to improve health, reduce healthcare costs and create jobs.
A new analysis approach helps identify when and where to conduct food safety inspections, reducing waste and lost sales. The researchers found that food recalls are delayed by 1-2 months, peaking from mid-August through mid-September.
A study categorizes innovations with potential to transform the food system, including artificial meat and fine-tuned photosynthesis. To succeed, these innovations require policy conditions and social acceptance.
The EU's ambitious climate goals may lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions worldwide if non-EU countries don't adopt similar strategies. The EU-Calc model forecasts a CO2 leakage of 61.5%, resulting in an increase of 615 kilos of CO2 for every tonne of emissions avoided by the EU.
The Journal of Public Policy & Marketing explores the complex relationship between consumer power and access, examining how technology, wealth, and industry organization influence this dynamic. Key findings highlight the importance of perceived access to healthcare, financial capability, and trait hope in improving consumer outcomes.
The Russian Journal of Economics special issue highlights the country's agricultural growth and its impact on global markets. Despite achieving national food security, experts warn that neglecting nutrition in policies may expose Russia to public health risks like malnourishment and obesity.
A national study found that most American children and adolescents still have poorly quality diets, with significant disparities based on socioeconomic status. Despite improvements in sugary beverage consumption and whole grain intake, kids' diets are still lacking in essential nutrients.
Researchers at Princeton University have created a framework to understand and compare cities' food systems and their effects on climate change, water use, and land use. The study highlights the impacts of differences in meat consumption between Indian and U.S. cities, as well as differences in food processing.
A survey of over 1,000 German consumers found broad support for nutritional policy action, despite initial concerns about social acceptance. Key findings indicate that people's opinions on food policies are not tied to individual dietary struggles, with those who eat a healthy diet also being in favor of regulation.
A University of Utah Health study found that poor communications in 22 Utah communities hinder efforts to connect those in need with food resources. The researchers identified four clusters of communities: Food Secure, Food Insecure, Information Deserts, and Information Uncertain.
A new study by Penn State researchers found that adults increasingly prefer sweet e-cigarette flavors over traditional tobacco flavors. The study suggests that restrictions on flavored e-liquids may drive long-term users to seek illicit sources, posing health risks.
A participatory study in Bilbao reveals that the urban environment influences eating behavior, with socioeconomic differences affecting food choices. The study identified six themes, including unhealthy eating behaviors, cultural diversity, and limited involvement of citizens and authorities in improving neighborhoods.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that consumers may be wasting more than twice as much food as commonly believed, and that affluent consumers waste more food. The researchers used a human metabolism model to quantify the relationship between food waste and consumer affluence.
A study by the University of Bonn found that commercials aimed at children decreased in Germany after EU-level voluntary commitment was put in place. However, companies exploited loopholes and the initiative showed partial success. The researchers also highlighted the need for stricter guidelines to regulate food advertising.
A study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that most American adults consume meals of poor nutritional quality when dining out, with disparities affecting certain groups. The researchers recommend improving the nutritional quality of restaurant meals and reducing health disparities to promote healthier eating.
A study found that adopting a plant-based diet in New Zealand could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 4-42% annually, improve population health, and save the healthcare system NZD $14 to $20 billion over time. The research also highlights the importance of reducing food waste and promoting climate-friendly eating patterns.
A new study suggests that rural communities in Vermont are already managing their food waste effectively through composting and feeding scraps to pets or livestock. While support for banning food waste is high, only a minority of residents are willing to pay for curbside compost pickup programs.
Adults with food insecurity are 10-37% more likely to die prematurely, on average 9 years earlier than their food-secure counterparts. Policies addressing food insecurity could reduce premature deaths.
The Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act led to significant improvements in school meal quality, with increased whole grains, dairy, and fruits, while reducing refined grains. Participation rates rose in schools serving healthiest lunches, offsetting concerns about costs.
Research found that South Korea, China, and Taiwan have experienced significant changes in food supply, with increased animal source foods and sugar contributing to obesity issues. In contrast, many Western countries have seen declines in animal source foods and sugar, accompanied by increases in vegetable availability.
Researchers identified families with high carbon footprints as consuming more sweets, alcohol, and restaurant food. These food choices contribute significantly to their higher carbon footprint, with meat consumption explaining less than 10% of the difference.
A new study found that unhealthy diets account for almost 20% of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes costs in the US. Suboptimal diets cost approximately $300 per person, or $50 billion nationally, accounting for 18 percent of all heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes costs.
A growing double burden of malnutrition affects individuals, families, communities, and countries in low- and middle-income countries. High-quality diets are crucial to prevent all forms of malnutrition, while changes in food systems drive the emerging global epidemics of type 2 diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.
A $1.4 million grant is awarded to improve food security for Aboriginal communities in Central Australia and Torres Strait Islanders. The project focuses on promoting healthier diets through pricing strategies and community engagement.
A new global map assesses the sustainability of food systems, considering factors beyond productivity and nutrition. The study identifies knowledge gaps and provides a standardized framework for measuring food system sustainability.
A study from the UConn Rudd Center found that nearly all teen engagement with food and beverage brands on social media was for unhealthy products. The study also revealed that brand engagement was highest among Black teens, Spanish-speaking Hispanic teens, and teens with lower education levels, raising public health concerns.
A study by University at Buffalo researchers finds that a trade deal between the US and Central American countries led to an increase in unhealthy food imports, including industrial sweeteners and processed foods. The research highlights the need for policymakers to consider the impact of trade agreements on diet and health.
The EAT-Lancet diet, aimed at improving human and planetary health, is unaffordable for millions due to high food prices. The study estimates that daily costs exceed household income in many low-income countries.
A new book reveals how Bangladesh's aquaculture growth defied predictions, improving poverty reduction, employment generation, and food security. The 'Blue Revolution' increased fish consumption and reduced prices, benefiting all income groups.
A new study from IFPRI found that rural poor in Ethiopia tend to live near lower-quality markets with fewer food groups sold at high prices. This limits children's access to non-staple foods, leading to poor diets. The study highlights the importance of improving access to high-quality markets for better child nutrition.
A new US food-labeling policy will require packaging to display the amount of added sugars and their daily value. Food companies are developing low- or no-calorie sweeteners, such as allulose, which promises to deliver sugar properties with one-tenth the calories.
Researchers aim to address sustainable food systems for a growing population by developing an optimal food system from an economic and resource-use perspective. The study will examine the role of trade in making resource use more efficient and providing safe and nutritious food.
Researchers found that evocative labels like 'twisted citrus glazed carrots' can increase vegetable consumption by 29% and calorie intake by 39%. Careful word choice matters, as references to ingredients, preparation methods, and words that convey a positive experience can make healthy foods more crave-worthy.
The study highlights significant gaps in knowledge about underassessed foods, which represent more than half of animal production and over 25% of total food globally. The researchers argue that a more complete global food assessment is necessary to develop sensitive and versatile local solutions to environmental and food security issues.
Researchers propose targeted government support and food programs to address nutrition gaps, reducing environmental impacts compared to increased agricultural production. Eradicating hunger by 2030 requires only a marginal increase in overall agricultural production, with potential benefits for environmental sustainability.
A study published in The BMJ suggests that taxing high sugar snacks may be more effective in reducing obesity levels than increasing the price of sugar sweetened drinks. Increasing the price of biscuits, cakes, and sweets by 20% could lead to an average weight loss of 1.3 kg over one year.
A new study published in Public Health Nutrition found that Canadian children's diet quality during school hours improved by 13% over an 11-year period. The improvement was largely due to increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, as well as a reduction in calories from minimally nutritious foods.
A study by researchers at the University of Queensland and University of Cambridge found high levels of agreement among scientists and research stakeholders on principles to prevent conflicts of interest with the food industry. However, there is ongoing debate about what constitutes acceptable interactions and funding arrangements.
A new book from IFPRI researchers reveals that urbanization has spurred growth in nonfarm jobs but little impact on agricultural intensification, with stagnated growth in the non-cocoa sector. Raising land productivity is key to transforming the national economy and ensuring future growth.
A recent study found that nearly half of university and two-year college students in the US experience food insecurity, leading to academic struggles, mental health issues, and reduced career opportunities. Food insecure students often turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms or go without meals, exacerbating the problem.
A new study highlights the benefits of a US salt reduction strategy for the food industry, finding that meeting FDA targets could produce significant health gains and cost savings. The researchers modelled the impact on food companies and workers, finding that the value of CVD-related health gains and cost savings exceed government costs.
Research shows that high prices of healthy foods are a major factor in malnutrition worldwide, particularly in poorer countries where access to nutrient-dense foods is limited. The study finds that economic development tends to make healthy foods more affordable, but also makes unhealthy processed foods cheaper.
Climate change and increased CO2 levels are projected to significantly reduce the availability of critical nutrients such as protein, iron, and zinc worldwide. By 2050, nutrient availability is expected to decrease by 19.5% for protein, 14.4% for iron, and 14.6% for zinc globally.