Billions lack access to healthy diets, but solutions are within reach, says new report

The 2025 EAT-Lancet Commission on Healthy, Sustainable, and Just Food Systems has highlighted the critical role that food systems play in some of the most pressing global challenges we face today. From chronic diseases and inequality to climate change and biodiversity loss, our current food production and consumption practices are exacerbating these issues.

The report emphasizes that while there is enough food produced globally to feed everyone, nearly 3.7 billion people lack access to a healthy diet, fair wages, and a clean environment. At the same time, food production is a significant contributor to environmental degradation, accounting for almost 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions and pushing the boundaries of our planet’s sustainability.

To address these challenges, the Commission proposes adopting the Planetary Health Diet (PHD), a plant-rich dietary framework, along with efforts to reduce food loss and waste, implement sustainable agricultural practices, and halt the conversion of intact ecosystems for agriculture. By following these guidelines, the world can improve public health, restore planetary health, and ensure food security for a growing global population.

The report also highlights the potential health benefits of shifting towards a plant-rich diet, estimating that such dietary changes could prevent approximately 15 million premature deaths each year by reducing rates of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

In addition to dietary recommendations, the Commission emphasizes the need for transformative action across the entire food system. This includes promoting sustainable agricultural practices, protecting natural habitats, reducing food waste, ensuring fair wages and working conditions for food workers, and empowering marginalized communities to participate in decision-making processes.

The report also underscores the importance of addressing inequities within current food systems, with the wealthiest 30% of the global population responsible for the majority of environmental pressures caused by food production. In contrast, millions of people lack access to nutritious food, fair wages, and safe working conditions.

Looking ahead to 2050, the report presents scenarios for transforming global food systems to be more sustainable, healthy, and equitable. By implementing the recommendations outlined by the Commission, including shifting to healthy diets, protecting traditional diets, and empowering smallholder farmers, we can work towards a future where food systems support human health, environmental sustainability, and social equity.

Overall, the 2025 EAT-Lancet Commission report provides a comprehensive roadmap for reshaping food systems to address the complex challenges we face today. By taking bold and coordinated action, we can build a more resilient and sustainable future for generations to come.