A new report from the EAT-Lancet Commission highlights how we can create a healthy and fair food system for everyone while taking care of our planet. Since its last report in 2019, the world has faced many challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and rising food prices. These issues have made it harder for many people to access healthy food.
The updated report, released in October 2025, shows that changing our diets could save about 15 million lives each year. It emphasizes that this new “Planetary Health Diet” (PHD) can fit into many cultures and personal preferences, making it easier for everyone to adopt.
Key Findings from the Report
Food’s Connection to Other Issues: Our food system is at the heart of major global challenges, including climate change and health. The report notes that food production is responsible for around 30% of greenhouse gas emissions. Transitioning to the PHD could reduce these emissions significantly.
Current Inequities: While there has been some progress in reducing hunger, many still lack access to healthy diets. Over half of the global population struggles to afford nutritious food. The wealthiest 30% contribute to the majority of environmental harm through their dietary choices, while only 1% are living sustainably.
Environmental Impact: Unsustainable farming practices, like deforestation, hurt biodiversity. Food production is a leading factor in breaking down the planet’s health boundaries, affecting ecosystems and water resources.
Importance of Justice: For a successful transformation, fairness is crucial. Many people, especially in low-income areas, face power imbalances that limit their access to nutritious food and decent living conditions. The report calls for better wages and representation to help address these issues.
Coalition for Change: Building a good food system can feed 9.6 billion people while reducing environmental stress. However, this requires collaboration among various stakeholders, financial backing, and a clear action plan.
Steps Towards Change
To create a just food system by 2050, the report suggests eight key actions:
- Make healthy food more accessible and affordable.
- Support traditional diets that are healthy.
- Adopt eco-friendly farming methods.
- Protect remaining natural ecosystems.
- Improve management to cut food waste.
- Ensure fair working conditions.
- Include everyone in decision-making.
- Protect marginalized communities.
According to experts like Kirsten Dunlop, CEO of Climate KIC, addressing these issues is essential for health and justice. She believes that food is intertwined with many areas, like climate and biodiversity, making its transformation vital for our future.
In summary, the path to a sustainable food system involves changing how we produce and consume food, ensuring fairness for all, and recognizing the interconnectedness of our global challenges. By working together, we can build a healthier, more just world.
For more details, you can read the full report here.
