Fortified whole grains and whole blends: A timely food systems shift

Grains are central to food systems in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Their predominant consumption in refined form contributes to the double burden of malnutrition and wastes precious food and natural resources in a world challenged by growing food insecurity and accelerating climate change and biodiversity loss. Shifting consumption from refined grain foods to fortified whole grain and whole blend foods can improve food security and make diets healthier. This would also make food systems more efficient and resilient, and help mitigate the food crisis. School meal programs and other institutional and safety net markets offer the best entry points to initiate this necessary shift in food systems within LMICs.