Towards a food agribusiness that nourishes and contributes to sustainability

Abstract

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development has as its vision a sustainable food system that contributes to food security and the eradication of hunger and malnutrition in all its forms. The food agroindustry (FA) plays a key role in guaranteeing the food supply chain, in an effective and equitable manner, that avoids affecting the population, particularly the most vulnerable. The objective of this work was to identify the challenges that the FA faces to contribute to a sustainable system, and directly to SDGs 2 and 13, since both are linked to the achievement of sustainable development, as well as to provide recommendations in this regard. Some of the key aspects in which the FA would contribute to achieving these SDGs are the increase in sustainable production, access to equitable distribution, the reduction of food waste and the advertising exposure of ultra-processed foods, and innovation in the development of nutritious and sustainable foods. On the other hand, the FA has opportunities such as technology and digitalization, alliances with different sectors, the promotion of responsible consumption and local foods, among others. It is recommended to promote education, research, investment in agricultural infrastructure, the regulation of the content of critical nutrients and the implementation of front-of-pack labeling of nutrients, as well as supporting initiatives that improve access to adequate nutrition such as school feeding programs, of social protection and projects that strengthen the resilience of rural communities in the face of climate change.