Shortcomings of a growth-driven food system

The status quo modus operandi of the global food system is not only failing to promote adequate or healthy nutrition, but is also exerting an unsustainably high pressure on our planet. This food system is in many ways similar to the growth-driven economic system in which it operates, where human and environmental health suffer as a result of profit maximization incentives. In this chapter we set out to explore country-level relationships between economic development status and food-related health and environmental issues. We focus on prevailing food consumption patterns and a global food regime that is still, in the most part, operating in a post-World War II economic growth paradigm. Based on our findings of key drivers for dietary change, we argue that the way in which food is produced, marketed and priced reinforces adverse health and environmental problems that, in turn, result in higher economic costs to society in the form of health care and environmental impacts. A growing literature on defining and promoting healthy and sustainable diets is testament to the increasing awareness of the importance of building a more sustainable food system. However, although certainly necessary, food sector-specific interventions aimed at promoting sustainable food production and consumption may not be sufficient to truly reverse current trends if economic growth remains the primary objective of nations.