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04:56
Assessment of Social Transmission of Food Preferences Behaviors
Published on: January 25, 2018
Food transitions in the 20th-21st century
1amayabengoa@hotmail.com
Public Health Nutrition
|March 29, 2002
Summary
Historical food transitions varied in speed and impact. Modern food transitions in Asia present challenges of improving health while combating both malnutrition and overconsumption.
Area of Science:
- Food science and nutrition
- Global public health
- Socioeconomic development
Background:
- Historically, food transitions have occurred at varying paces, sometimes rapidly and disruptively, other times gradually replacing traditional diets.
- The introduction of crops like potato and maize aided Europe in famine prevention, yet exclusive crop systems led to significant issues.
Observation:
- Current major food transitions are predominantly occurring in Asia.
- Emerging economies are navigating the complex challenge of enhancing population health and well-being.
- These nations must simultaneously address issues of food excess and surplus.
Findings:
- Food transitions, while offering opportunities for dietary improvement, carry inherent risks.
- Historical examples demonstrate that exclusive crop systems can lead to severe problems.
- Asia is currently the epicenter of significant global food system transformations.
Implications:
- Addressing the negative consequences of food transitions is crucial for public health.
- Strategies must balance the promotion of healthier diets with the prevention of overconsumption.
- Global efforts are needed to combat both hunger and malnutrition in the context of evolving food systems.
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