What's Happening?
The EAT-Lancet Commission has released updated dietary recommendations aimed at improving individual and planetary health. The diet emphasizes plant-based foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes, with limited consumption of fish,
dairy, and meat. A study conducted by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) and other research institutions examined the global adoption of this diet by 2050. The study found that while the diet could slow the increase in food commodity prices, it might also exacerbate nutrient deficiencies in low-income settings if not accompanied by targeted nutrition interventions. The research utilized IFPRI's International Model for Policy Analysis of Agricultural Commodities and Trade (IMPACT) to assess the effects on calorie availability, food prices, and nutrient availability.
Why It's Important?
The adoption of the EAT-Lancet diet has significant implications for global food systems, particularly in terms of affordability and nutritional outcomes. The study highlights potential improvements in nutrient availability for folate, iron, and zinc, but also warns of possible declines in vitamin A availability due to reduced intake of animal-source foods. The economic impact is notable, with lower-income countries potentially spending a higher share of household income on food, driven by shifts towards more expensive food items. This underscores the need for careful planning and local co-design of dietary transition strategies to avoid deepening nutrient and affordability gaps, especially in regions like South Asia and Eastern Africa.
What's Next?
Further research and policy development are needed to address the affordability and nutritional challenges posed by the EAT-Lancet diet recommendations. Stakeholders, including governments and health organizations, may need to implement targeted nutrition interventions to mitigate potential nutrient deficiencies. Additionally, there may be a need for economic policies that support lower-income populations in accessing affordable, healthy diets. The study provides a foundation for ongoing dialogue and research into the global shift towards plant-based diets and their implications for food systems.
Beyond the Headlines
The study raises ethical and cultural considerations regarding dietary changes and their impact on traditional food practices. The shift towards plant-based diets may challenge cultural norms and require sensitive approaches to dietary education and policy implementation. Long-term shifts in agricultural practices and food production systems may also be necessary to support the widespread adoption of the EAT-Lancet diet, potentially influencing global food security and environmental sustainability.
