Redefining the nutrition paradigm for a sustainable future: the meating point for a harmonious coexistence

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to introduce the Pancentric Nutrition Paradigm, an innovative conceptual framework designed to integrate human nutritional requirements, environmental sustainability, animal welfare and broader societal considerations. Unlike traditional paradigms, which predominantly adopt either anthropocentric (focused on human health) or oikocentric (focused on environmental sustainability) viewpoints, the pancentric approach advocates for a comprehensive, balanced model to address sustainability in food systems. Design/methodology/approach Using an interdisciplinary synthesis, this conceptual paper integrates literature from nutrition science, environmental studies, policy analysis and agricultural economics. Through critical analysis and theoretical integration, this paper constructs a novel pancentric framework and evaluates existing food policy proposals alongside emerging alternative production methods. This structured approach ensures a detailed consideration of feasibility and potential impacts. Findings This study identifies four key practical strategies crucial for achieving sustainable and ethical food systems: implementation of urban agriculture and agro-zoos for localized food production and educational purposes; introduction of a structured meat carbon tax (€0.10 per kg CO2e) designed to encourage sustainable consumption patterns; promotion of ostrich farming as a more environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional red meat; and development of clear policy pathways to integrate these strategies into broader sustainable development frameworks. The findings of this study emphasize the potential effectiveness of the pancentric approach in harmonizing competing interests within global food systems. Originality/value The Pancentric Nutrition Paradigm addresses a significant gap in current scholarship by bridging environmental sustainability concerns, human dietary needs and ethical animal agriculture. By proposing practical strategies suitable for industry adoption and policy implementation, this paradigm offers valuable insights and solutions for fostering globally sustainable and ethically responsible food systems.