Cities Leading the Way Towards Healthy Food Environments for Children
Urbanization is changing the face of malnutrition. The ways in which children and their families buy, cook, and eat their food are affected by the quality and influences of the physical, social, and economic conditions around them. Cities house the majority of the world’s population and are growing exponentially, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. And while cities are full of opportunities, they are often places where nature, public space, and adequate access to health, protection, food, and nutrition are not guaranteed. EAT and UNICEF released two case studies that highlight how cities are working to improve food security, nutrition, and resilience through an integrated food systems approach. The analyses, featuring the stories of Amsterdam and Quezon City, have been developed to provide guidance and inspire further action for enhancing sustainable food and nutrition systems around the world. While every city is unique, in fact, all cities should be supported in making the necessary changes for healthy and sustainable eating to become a reality for all children.