With contributions from more than 50 global researchers, FSCI is the first and most comprehensive effort to assess food systems worldwide. The first analysis was released in late 2023, and in January 2025 the first update revealed what’s improving — and what still needs urgent action.
“Progress cannot be achieved in isolation — it requires a holistic approach that recognizes the intricate web of connections within our global food systems and harnesses these interconnections to drive transformative change across all sectors — but it can be achieved.” – Columbia University, Cornell University, FAO, and GAIN.
Current status and food trends compared to the 2023 FSCI
Of the 42 indicators analysed, 20 have improved, 7 have worsened, and 15 have remained unchanged since 2000. Positive trends include increased access to safe water across all regions, enhanced nitrogen use efficiency, higher agricultural yields for cereals, fruits, vegetables, milk, and beef, and stability in the food supply. Governance indicators, such as government effectiveness, have also improved and undernourishment has decreased compared to the previous baseline.
Additionally, agricultural efficiency — through higher crop yields and better nitrogen use — has reduced environmental impact. Access to safe drinking water has expanded, benefiting food security and public health. Conservation efforts have increased, with more plant and animal genetic resources being preserved. Technological advancements have strengthened connectivity, improving market access and crisis response. The percentage of people who cannot afford a healthy diet has also decreased.
Despite these gains, food insecurity remains a significant issue, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, Northern Africa, and Western Asia. Pesticide use has escalated, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean, posing risks to health and ecosystems. Food price volatility, driven by economic shocks, conflicts, and climate-related disruptions, has made essential food items less affordable, ultimately impacting health. Price fluctuation can also be environmentally detrimental and create difficulties for smallholder farmers in rural areas to access the market. Moreover, agricultural water withdrawals remain high, straining natural resources.
Important indicators within governance are not analysed, highlighting a substantial need for effective government leadership. As such, government accountability has declined, limiting policy effectiveness. Civil society participation has decreased, reducing public engagement in food system improvements. Rural underemployment has risen, leaving agricultural workers economically vulnerable.
Compared to the 2023 report, which provided a baseline report, the 2024 report reveals that while some progress has been made, many key areas remain stagnant or have worsened. Food costs have slightly improved due to rising incomes. Food supply variability has declined, indicating better resilience, though regional disparities persist. While the 2023 report focused on establishing a monitoring framework, the 2024 report emphasises long-term trends and interactions between key indicators, offering deeper insights into systemic challenges and opportunities.
Interactions between indicators and their implications
A key finding of the 2024 report is the complex web of interactions between food system indicators. These relationships create synergies and trade-offs, as mentioned by Mario Herrero, Professor and Director of the Food Systems & Global Change Program, Cornell University, requiring careful policy design.
Governance and resilience have the strongest influence on food system transformation. Health policies, such as food taxation, have improved dietary habits in some countries but can also lead to unintended consequences, such as higher food costs, if not carefully implemented. As transforming food systems to be fairer, healthier, more resilient and sustainable is a shared responsibility, improvements in government effectiveness, civic participation, and food policies are keys leading to better food security, economic stability, environmental sustainability, health and livelihoods.
While many of these interactions hold globally, country-specific case studies in Ethiopia, Mexico, and the Netherlands reveal how local political, economic, and social factors influence food systems differently.
Food price volatility is a critical factor affecting multiple areas. When food prices fluctuate unpredictably, food insecurity worsens, diet quality declines, and economic instability increases. Stabilising food prices can have widespread positive effects. However, making progress demands significant coordinated efforts across various sectors and stakeholders. These indicators should be a central focus in improving policy coherence. Strengthening governance should be a priority, as transparent and accountable institutions are essential for effective food policies. Resilience strategies must reduce food price volatility and improve rural employment stability.
With only a few years remaining to meet the 2030 SDG targets, coordinated global action is essential to drive meaningful, lasting change in food systems worldwide.
Written by David Mingasson, SIANI reporter