FAO Urges Overhaul of Pakistan’s Agrifood System to Combat Malnutrition

ISLAMABAD: The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations has highlighted the critical need for a transformation in Pakistan’s agrifood system to enhance access to nutritious diets, a vital step in tackling malnutrition and its societal costs.

In its recent assessment titled “Food Supply for Healthy Diets in Pakistan,” the FAO reported that over 60% of the population is unable to afford a healthy diet, which significantly contributes to the country’s alarming malnutrition rates. The report underscores a persistent mismatch between the available food quantities and the dietary needs outlined in the national food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs).

This situation poses severe implications for public health and economic stability, as malnutrition not only affects individual well-being but also hampers national development priorities. The FAO’s findings call for immediate action to ensure that all citizens have access to healthy food options, which is essential for improving overall health outcomes and productivity.

Looking ahead, stakeholders in Pakistan’s agricultural and food sectors are urged to convene and discuss strategies for reforming the agrifood system. This includes enhancing food production, improving distribution channels, and implementing policies that support affordable access to nutritious foods for all citizens.