Unlocking Food Security: A Comprehensive Research Framework for Sustainable Solutions | npj Science of Food

We’ve created a helpful framework for understanding food security and sustainability. This framework includes five main themes, each with important research topics and essential questions. For a quick reference, you’ll find a summary of these key research questions in Table 1.

(Re)assess Food System Contexts & Drivers

The first theme focuses on the different environments in which food systems function. It looks at social, economic, political, and technological factors that affect how food is produced, processed, and consumed. Some hot topics here include how technology and policies impact consumer and industry behavior. For instance, how can we use innovative technologies, like alternative proteins and precision agriculture, to improve food security? And how do we align various regulations and policies to support healthier and more sustainable food systems?

Another important question is how can industries help consumers make better choices regarding health and sustainability? Collaboration among food actors at different levels is crucial to address complex issues and create effective change.

Adapt Food System Activities

This theme addresses all the activities involved in getting food from farms to plates, including production, processing, packaging, distribution, and consumption. Regenerative agriculture has gained attention as a key strategy for sustainability. How can we share successful regenerative practices across different contexts? What incentives can motivate farmers and food businesses to adopt these practices?

Food processing also plays a vital role in food security. Extending the shelf life of products can reduce waste and improve access to nutritious food. However, we must consider the nutritional quality of processed foods and how consumers perceive them. Questions arise, such as: How can food processing enhance food security and nutritional value? And how can consumers make informed choices that promote sustainability?

Transform Food System Outcomes

This theme explores the outcomes of food systems, such as food availability, access, and nutritional value. It also considers broader social and environmental impacts, like greenhouse gas emissions. Discussions emphasized the need to manage food demand and explore local food systems for self-sufficiency and sustainability. How can we reduce food demand while maintaining balance in production? What role do localized food systems play in ensuring food security?

Urban food systems were highlighted for their potential in improving access to nutritious food and tackling carbon emissions. As the conversation continued, participants noted the importance of equity and justice in achieving food security. Questions arose about how to make healthy food both accessible and affordable, particularly in urban areas.

Environmental topics such as food waste and reliance on fertilizers were also scrutinized. Reducing food loss across the supply chain is essential for sustainability. How can we better measure and prevent food waste? Additionally, the dependency on fertilizers like phosphate raises questions about sustainable practices. How can we use phosphorus more efficiently in food production?

Develop and Apply Food System Approaches and Methodologies

The next theme focuses on the various methods used to analyze and evaluate food systems. Stakeholder engagement and Life Cycle Assessment tools are vital for making informed decisions. How can we ensure these methods capture social and economic aspects in addition to environmental impacts? It’s crucial to assess the resilience of food supply chains against potential shocks and disruptions.

Adopt an Ethical and Just Lens

Finally, this theme emphasizes the need for an ethical approach in food security research. Researchers and food actors must be mindful of fairness and justice in their work. The questions we ask about right and fair practices are fundamental in shaping equitable food systems.