Better nutrition for better health: a human rights perspective on EU law and policy on food and nutrition

Abstract Overconsumption of unhealthy foods poses a significant public health challenge in the European Union (EU) and is linked to high rates of non-communicable disease. We analyse EU food and nutrition law and policy against global health and nutrition objectives, specifically the human rights to health and food. We find that EU law and policy prioritize food safety and consumer information which results in nutrition being considered solely an individual responsibility. Whilst healthy and nutritious choices are promoted, they are not supported by food environments that would facilitate these choices. Based on our analysis of global recommendations, we suggest measures across the entire food supply chain that prioritize nutritional quality in production, processing, distribution, retail, marketing, and consumption. Given the emerging momentum around the right to food within the EU, we draw on human rights commitments to suggest strategies that ensure adequate access to healthy and nutritious diets for everyone.