Building Resilient Food Systems: The Role of Agricultural Value Chains in Feeding the Future

Economist Impact, in collaboration with Lineage, Inc., has released the report "Feeding the Future", which examines how robust agricultural value chains and food infrastructure are vital for building inclusive and sustainable food systems. The report calls for global collaboration to enhance infrastructure and ensure food security, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.

Addressing the Global Food Challenge

Despite producing enough food to feed the global population of 8 billion, approximately 733 million people face hunger, and 3.1 billion cannot afford a healthy diet. Moreover, 24% of global calories are lost due to food waste and inefficiencies. The report identifies infrastructure—such as cold storage, transportation networks, and processing facilities—as key to reducing waste, increasing agricultural productivity, and enabling access to safe, nutritious food.

Insights and Key Findings

The report highlights four critical pathways for impact:

• Economic Benefits: Improved infrastructure enhances connectivity for smallholder farmers, increasing market access, reducing costs, and fostering local economic growth.
• Nutritional Gains: Temperature-controlled supply chains preserve perishable food, ensuring access to healthier diets in underserved communities.
• Social Equity: Robust food systems empower marginalized groups, including women, by increasing opportunities and reducing time spent on basic tasks.
• Environmental Impact: Climate-resilient infrastructure mitigates food waste and greenhouse gas emissions, creating sustainable agricultural practices.

The Role of Cold Chain Infrastructure

The report emphasizes the transformative role of temperature-controlled supply chains in maintaining food quality from farm to fork. Through innovations in IoT, AI, and renewable energy, cold chains can reduce post-harvest losses and deliver safe, nutritious food globally.

Call to Action

Economist Impact’s research underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between governments, the private sector, and NGOs to bridge gaps in food infrastructure. Such initiatives can ensure long-term sustainability while addressing food security challenges worldwide.

About the Report

The "Feeding the Future" report is part of Economist Impact’s Food Imperative initiative, supported by Lineage. This initiative aims to provide actionable insights for stakeholders to create resilient and sustainable food systems.

For more information, visit the report.