A group of major food companies says more can be done to address public health and environmental health concerns, including climate change, through food.
The Sustainable Food Policy Alliance was formed by Danone North America, Mars Incorporated, Nestle USA and Unilever to influence food policy.
This week, the group released its framework for the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
The group says the guidelines should be transparent, reflect the current public health environment, incorporate food groups that reflect a wide range of possible healthful diets, and be enhanced through education campaigns, along with clearly stating rational with scientific citations.
The groups state the guidelines are “the right place to explore issues like sustainability and emerging areas like Food is Medicine, in order to turn the tide on food and nutrition-related public health concerns.”
The framework also says dietary advice should account for how climate change, water scarcity, soil health, and other environmental challenges may impact the availability and nutrient density of foods and beverages.