The conversation about food systems is changing. For a long time, discussions mainly revolved around how to produce and trade food. Now, we face a new challenge: ensuring that diets are healthy, sustainable, and beneficial for both people and the planet.
Recently, during the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva, a key event titled “Ultra-Processed Foods and Human Health: Evidence, Policies, and Global Action” took place. Hosted by Brazil, France, Mexico, and Uruguay, it highlighted that Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) are not just a nutritional concern. They are a significant public health and environmental issue. Current guidelines, like those from CODEX, are insufficient to address the growing challenges posed by UPFs.
Professor Patricia Jaime shared findings at the event that link UPFs to serious health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Moreover, this gathering signaled a shift in government attitudes, moving towards coordinated regulatory action on UPFs. Brazil, in particular, is discussing a resolution that could reshape international food governance related to these foods.
The conversation about UPFs isn’t new. Back in 2016, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) hosted a symposium that highlighted concerns over unhealthy diets, obesity, and the environmental costs of our current food systems. At that time, many were hesitant to move away from a focus solely on food safety, fearing it would impact trade.
But evidence kept piling up. In 2019, The Lancet introduced the idea of the “Global Syndemic,” arguing that obesity, malnutrition, and climate change are intertwined crises stemming from dysfunctional food systems. That same year, the FAO published a pivotal report on UPFs, legitimizing the discussion that now shapes global nutrition policies.
Brazil’s role has been notable. The country created innovative dietary guidelines in 2014, focusing on fresh and minimally processed foods rather than just nutrients. Brazilian research has shown that the effects of excessive food processing can significantly harm health, not just individual ingredients like sugar or fat.
Today, this idea is beginning to influence international policies. For instance, Spain’s Congress recently called for a common legal definition of ultra-processed foods within the European Union. Similar discussions are popping up across Latin America and within global organizations.
The issue of UPFs also ties into the broader One Health agenda, a framework recognizing the connections among human health, animal health, and the environment. The expansion of UPFs is linked to agricultural practices that harm biodiversity and contribute to climate change.
In April, the WHO held an event called “Ultra-Processed Foods: A One Health Agenda for Action and Accountability.” This marks a significant step, as discussions about UPFs now extend beyond health departments to climate negotiations and social policies, especially in developing nations.
A striking paradox exists today: hunger and obesity can coexist in the same communities. Many low-income families rely on ultra-processed foods not by choice, but because healthier options are often too expensive. The challenge is not merely increasing food production but ensuring everyone has access to nutritious options.
Brazil exemplifies this dual challenge, having faced both successful hunger alleviation through the Fome Zero Strategy and a rise in obesity linked to deteriorating food environments.
Looking ahead, the global governance of food needs to evolve beyond just trade safety. It’s time to craft international policies that treat unhealthy food systems with the same urgency as tobacco control. Strategies might include taxes on sugary beverages, restrictions on marketing to children, clear labeling on unhealthy products, public procurement for healthy food, and support for local farming.
This shift is essential for fostering healthier and more sustainable food systems worldwide, benefiting both present and future generations.
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