The private sector can be a crucial ally in global efforts to make agri-food systems more resilient, sustainable, efficient and inclusive to ensure healthy diets for all.

This was a key takeaway from the B20-G20-FAO Dialogue on Sustainable Food System, a joint initiative co-organized by the Business 20 (B20) Italy, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the Italian Presidency of the G20.  

In his welcoming address, FAO Director-General QU Dongyu highlighted the importance of treasuring and safeguarding local food production and traditional healthy diets. They are vital for advancing efforts towards agri-food systems that respect the environment, culture and well-being of people, he noted.

As examples of healthy, traditional diets, Qu cited the Mediterranean diet, which implies high intakes of diverse vegetables, fruits, legumes, herbs and olive oil, as well as Roman, Egyptian, Greek, Chinese and Indian food culture with more than 3000 years of history.