Animal-source foods: Their role in sustainable healthy diets

Abstract

As part of the rapid evolution of diets in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), consumption of animal-source foods (ASFs) has increased sharply in recent decades. This chapter examines ASFs as part of a sustainable healthy diet by exploring the beneficial role of ASFs in providing essential micronutrients in some age cohorts and populations in LMICs, the potential negative health impacts, and the environmental impacts associated with livestock production. It concludes with recommendations for ASF consumption, including policies and interventions for reducing excess consumption and promoting consumption where ASFs could play a larger role in sustainable healthy diets.

Citation

Leroy, Jef L.; and Alonso, Silvia. 2024. Animal-source foods: Their role in sustainable healthy diets. In Global food policy report 2024: Food systems for healthy diets and nutrition. Chapter 7, Pp. 62-70. Washington, DC: International Food Policy Research Institute. https://hdl.handle.net/10568/141890

Authors

  • Leroy, Jef L.
  • Alonso, Silvia