Food security and nutrition in agro-food sustainability transitions

Food and nutrition security is the main outcome of a sustainable food system. However, food insecurity and malnutrition still affect half of the global population. This is a symptom of the dysfunction of the food system and highlights the urgent need for transition toward sustainability. This chapter reviews research on agro-food sustainability transitions and analyzes whether and how it addresses food security and nutrition. It also casts light on pathways for transition toward sustainable food systems (viz., efficiency increase, demand restraint, and food system transformation). It is assumed that agro-food sustainability transition affects the four dimensions of food security (i.e. availability, access, utilization, stability) and implies changes in nutrition practices and dietary patterns. Nonetheless, food security and nutrition are marginal in the literature dealing with food sustainability transitions. This chapter makes the case for fostering integration of agro-food sustainability transitions and food security not only in research but also in policy and practice.