Dietitians Australia is calling for immediate action from all levels of government to prioritize the findings of the 2025 EAT-Lancet Commission. This comes in response to the recent release of EAT-Lancet 2.0, presented at the Stockholm Food Forum. The report outlines the latest scientific consensus on creating healthier and more sustainable food systems that benefit both individuals and the planet.
The EAT-Lancet Commission recommends establishing a dietary pattern that not only promotes health but can also be tailored to fit local environments and cultural practices. “Prioritising a sustainable food system is essential to secure food, nutrition, and hydration for Australians now and in the future,” stated Dr. Fiona Willer, President of Dietitians Australia.
Urgent Need for Coordinated Action
Dr. Willer emphasized that food systems are at the core of current challenges related to climate change, biodiversity loss, health issues, and food security. She noted, “They are also central to the solutions.” A transformation of the food system requires coordinated action across various sectors, from agricultural production and food processing to distribution and consumption, while also minimizing food waste at every stage.
Dietitians Australia has long advocated for a comprehensive national approach to food and nutrition, which includes the establishment of a National Nutrition Strategy. “To ensure food security for future generations while maintaining ecological integrity, we must transition towards smarter, more sustainable dietary patterns,” said Nicole Senior, an Advanced Accredited Practising Dietitian and Co-Convenor of the Dietitians Australia Food and Environment Interest Group.
Senior highlighted that an optimal diet meets nutritional needs, protects against chronic diseases, and minimizes environmental harm while being equitable and accessible to all. The EAT-Lancet 2.0 Planetary Health Diet emphasizes the consumption of vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fruits, and nuts. It also promotes traditional food practices and guides individuals toward choices that support health and reduce environmental impacts.
Focus on Sustainability in Dietary Guidelines
Dietitians Australia expressed support for the Australian Dietary Guidelines Expert Committee, which has formed a Dietary Guidelines Sustainability Working Group. This group aims to incorporate sustainability considerations into the updated dietary guidelines, aligning with the recommendations from EAT-Lancet 2.0, which have been adopted by various countries.
“We urge the Committee and Working Group to examine the evidence and recommendations presented within this EAT-Lancet 2.0 report,” Dr. Willer remarked. She stressed that Australia requires a more sustainable food system to achieve genuine food and nutrition security.
As World Food Day approaches on October 16, Dietitians Australia remains committed to collaborating with government, health, food sectors, and communities to facilitate this necessary change. The urgency of addressing these issues has never been more critical, and the time for action is now.
