Which countries have the greatest potential for change?

Not all nations eat equally. Data reveals a wide disparity in diet-related resource use, indicating that some countries can change more than others.

It's important to remember that diet is profoundly shaped by culture, tradition, and economic forces. Yet, food choices carry global implications our planet's resources. Data reveals significant disparity in the 'food footprint' of different nations: the land, water, and greenhouse gas emissions required to sustain different lifestyles.

Compared to the global average, the average US diet requires double the agricultural land and generates twice the emissions per person. Animal-based foods, especially beef, drive this difference. For instance, in an average US diet, beef provides just 5% of the calories but accounts for 50% of the resources used:

Crucially, dietary transitions aren't about dictating what the world's most vulnerable populations can eat. The emphasis falls on populations consuming excess calories, protein, and those heavily reliant on resource-intensive foods like beef. These changes also don't mean eliminating livestock. In many locations, small farmers rely on sustainable animal agriculture traditions for both livelihood and local food security.

High-consuming nations – those with diets consistently exceeding both recommended caloric and protein intakes – hold major responsibility and potential for change. Adjustments in developing nations are less about restriction, and more about guiding the rising affluence towards sustainable consumption. Supporting sustainable local production methods is crucial as well.

To address the food gap, we must understand our food footprint in a global context and make smart choices with equity, growth, and sustainability front of mind.