Diets cannot be sustainable without ensuring the well-being of communities, workers and animals in food value chains

Abstract

The social dimension of sustainable diets, which addresses the impacts of food value chains on people, animals and communities, is under-represented in the food systems field. We present a definition of the social dimension of sustainable diets, clarify its boundaries and propose corresponding outcomes. Three case studies highlight the connectivity of social outcomes with the health, environment and economic dimensions of sustainable diets. The continued development of social metrics, data and methods and the implementation of integrated solutions co-developed with affected communities are needed to transform systems and structures that perpetuate unjust and inequitable food systems outcomes. The social impacts of food supply chains on people, animals and communities need to be integrated into sustainable dietary transformations. Here the social dimension of sustainable diets is defined and explored through case studies. Solutions are proposed to support just dietary transformations.