Global 'Planetary Health Diet' Could Save Millions and Slash Emissions by 2050

A major report on global food systems has proposed sweeping changes to diets worldwide. The EAT-Lancet Commission, made up of experts from 25 countries, released its findings on Thursday. Their recommendations aim to improve health, cut emissions and feed a growing population sustainably.

The report calls for a shift to a 'planetary health diet' by 2050. This diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes and whole grains, with only small amounts of meat and dairy. Red meat would be limited to a 4-ounce serving just once a week.

To make this possible, the commission suggests redirecting agricultural subsidies, taxing unhealthy foods and promoting traditional plant-based diets. They also highlight the need to reduce food waste and increase farming efficiency. These changes, they argue, would allow nearly 8.2 billion people to access health equity while protecting the planet.

The benefits could be substantial. Adopting this diet globally might prevent up to 15 million early deaths each year. It could also halve greenhouse gas emissions from food production and save $5 trillion annually by improving health, restoring ecosystems and slowing climate change.

The proposed diet would transform food systems while addressing both health and environmental challenges. If implemented, it could provide nutritious, culturally appropriate meals to most of the world's population within decades. The report's authors stress that policy changes and global cooperation will be essential to achieving these goals.