Thought for Food Blog

Bridging the Knowledge Gap for a Better Food Future

In an era where advancements in food security and sustainability are paramount, bridging the knowledge gap is essential for a better food future. Discover how IFIS and Research4Life are making a difference.

The Importance of World Food Day and Its 2024 Theme

World Food Day, observed on 16th October, highlights the significance of food security and the global challenges surrounding it. Initiated by the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations), this day serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts required to ensure that everyone has access to safe and nutritious food.

The theme for 2024, 'Right to foods for a better life and a better future,' underscores the fundamental human right to food and the necessity of addressing food-related issues for a sustainable future. By focusing on this theme, World Food Day aims to galvanise global efforts towards creating a world where everyone can enjoy the right to food security and adequate nutrition.

 

Challenges in the Global Food System

The global food system faces numerous challenges that hinder the achievement of food security for all. Malnutrition remains a pressing issue, with a projected 582 million people expected to be chronically undernourished by 2030. The prevalence of mono-cropping and the subsequent loss of food diversity further exacerbate the problem by limiting the variety of nutrients available to populations.

Additionally, crises such as conflicts, natural disasters, and economic instability drive millions into hunger and malnutrition, which often affect the rural poor and indigenous communities the most. An estimated 2.8 billion people worldwide could not afford a healthy diet in 2022 - more than one-third of the world population.

Unsafe food is another critical concern, posing severe health risks and undermining the efforts to provide nutritious food. According to estimates by the World Health Organization, nearly 1 in 10 people, or 600 million individuals globally, become ill, and 420,000 die each year due to consuming contaminated food. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach and the collaboration of various stakeholders to create resilient and sustainable food systems.

 

The Role of Trustworthy Science in Addressing Food Issues

Trustworthy science plays a crucial role in addressing the myriad issues plaguing the global food system. By providing evidence-based solutions, scientific research helps in developing strategies to combat malnutrition, improve food safety, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Reliable scientific information is essential for informing policies and practices that ensure the production and distribution of safe, nutritious food. Through rigorous research and innovation, science can drive advancements in food technology, enhance agricultural productivity, and support the creation of sustainable agrifood systems that benefit everyone.

 

How Research4Life is Bridging the Knowledge Gap

Research4Life is a transformative initiative that aims to provide access to research in low to middle income countries by providing free to low-cost access to over 200,000 scientific information resources. By reducing the disparity in access to scientific knowledge, Research4Life empowers researchers, educators, and policymakers with the tools they need to make informed decisions.

The programme's mission to improve teaching, research, and policy-making is pivotal in addressing global food challenges. Through its five programmes, including AGORA and HINARI, Research4Life supports the dissemination of valuable scientific information, fostering global education, research, and vocational training in the food community.

 

IFIS' Contribution to Global Food Knowledge and Education

IFIS is dedicated to understanding and serving the information needs of the food community worldwide. Committed to improving knowledge of the sciences of food and health, IFIS collaborates with Research4Life to provide free or low-cost access to its resources. 

Through the Research4Life programmes, IFIS offers access to FSTA (Food Science and Technology Abstracts) in universities, research centres, and other not-for-profit organisations in low to middle income countries. More than 120 Group A and Group B countries can access FSTA entirely free of charge. This access is instrumental in reducing the knowledge gap, stimulating global education, and supporting research and vocational training in the food community. By contributing to these efforts, IFIS plays a vital role in advancing food science education and promoting a better food future for all.

To check eligibility, register your institution, or see if your institution is already signed up, visit Research4Life

 

IFIS Sustainability: Celebrating a Year of Innovation

World Food Day also marks the first anniversary of IFIS Sustainability, the go-to free database for trustworthy food sustainability research. Launched in honour of World Food Day, IFIS is proud to offer this invaluable resource to the food science community. It is wholly free and available to all, allowing everyone working in or studying food science to have access to the latest trustworthy food sustainability research.

This free, rolling 6-month database offers a wealth of scientific research, empowering you with knowledge on sustainable practices, innovations, and policies. From reducing food waste to promoting sustainable agriculture, IFIS Sustainability is your trusted resource. It is updated weekly, so you're always at the forefront of the latest sustainable science. With IFIS's renowned quality control and superior indexing, IFIS Sustainability serves as your essential resource, whether you're a seasoned sustainability expert or just starting your journey,.

If you haven't already, unlock your free access now and join the fight towards a better and fairer food future.

 



Subscribe to receive new blog posts