Healthy and sustainable food:the answer to 5 frequently asked questions

Abstract

Food production is responsible for 25% of greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to the overexploitation and pollution of our planet, thereby threatening human health. In order to feed the increasing world population in a healthy and sustainable way, drastic changes are required in both food production and consumption. Not everyone needs to become vegetarian or vegan, but consumption of plant-based foods needs to increase and that of meat and dairy to decrease. These changes are more environmentally sustainable and healthy. Organically grown foods are not always more sustainable, but do contain less synthetic pesticide and antibiotics residues and sometimes more nutrients. Long-term studies are lacking to conclude whether their consumption is healthier. General advices to eat more sustainably and healthy include: prevent overconsumption, avoid food waste, take a few portions of dairy daily, eat less meats and replace meat by plant-based protein sources such as legumes, nuts, soy and cereals.</p