FOOD SYSTEM DATA


Food System Data is designed to deliver the most credible figures around the food system, food system change, and the transition towards plant-rich diets. We compiled data sheets based on the latest evidence to showcase the impacts of diets on the environment, animals, and health and to give insights in current developments and emerging opportunities.

Nutritional assessment of plant-based meat alternatives

Nutritionists and climate experts are warning of the consequences of high levels of animal-based food consumption in high- and middle-income countries. As a result, a shift towards more plant-rich eating patterns is increasingly recommended. If followed consistently, such a diet can reduce the risk of many lifestyle diseases and, at the same time, help combat climate change and biodiversity loss. ​

EU food system

Food system and dietary emissions

Food production accounts for a significant share of total and of national greenhouse gas emissions. Shifting towards plant-based diets is one of the most effective ways to reduce emissions and combat climate change…

Environmental impacts of meat alternatives

The food we choose can have a significant impact on the environment. Numerous studies have shown that plant-based foods and alternatives to animal-based products can reduce climate impact by up to 90%, compared to animal-based foods…

Colorful fish swim among vibrant coral reefs under sunlight in clear blue water. Rays of light pierce the ocean surface, illuminating the diverse marine life and intricate coral formations.

Biodiversity

The current rate of extinction is tens to hundreds of times higher than the average over the past 10 million years. The earth is currently undergoing its sixth mass extinction as a result of human activity.

Climate Change

The global food system is a significant driver of climate change. Animal agriculture contributes a large portion of greenhouse gas emissions like carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O). A food system transformation that reduces reliance on animal agriculture will cut emissions and free up land that can be used for carbon sequestration…

Land use

Agriculture is the biggest driver of deforestation and biodiversity loss. Most agricultural land is used to produce animal-based products, so what we eat (plant-based or animal-based products) has a bigger impact on land use than where and how it is produced…

Deforestation

Deforestation

Forests are vital for global biodiversity and play a crucial role in climate-change mitigation because they act as a huge carbon sink. Agriculture, particularly driven by the increasing production and consumption of animal-based products, is the main cause of global deforestation…

Resource use

A third of all food is lost or wasted along the supply chain. The production of animal-based foods is especially resource-intensive as the amount of feed required is far higher than the end product yielded.

A close-up of dry, cracked earth with a rough, textured surface. The soil appears brown and arid, with irregular patterns of fissures running through it. Small stones are scattered across the surface.

Environmental Pollution

Intensive livestock production generates various pollutants impacting water, soil and air quality and human health. Pathogens, hormones, antibiotics from livestock farming, and chemicals like ammonia or phosphorus are released into the environment via manure and other residues from animal farming…