From gene to plate in Indonesia: a food system framework for the triple burden of malnutrition

Global malnutrition has expanded to multiple causes, characterized by the coexistence of malnutrition problems. In many countries, child stunting/wasting occurs alongside rising obesity and diet-related non-communicable diseases in adults. The depletion of soil and crop minerals exacerbates hidden hunger worldwide. To address this problem, we need to invest substantial effort and adopt a broad perspective to transform the gene-to-plate continuum into a framework for a sustainable food system. This guidance aims to effect a fundamental shift in how the problem is conceptualized, moving beyond single-sector interventions to ensure year-round access to diverse, nutrient-dense foods through climate-smart agriculture, biofortification, and the use of local biodiversity. This conceptual paper develops the Gene-to-Plate framework, using Indonesia as the primary setting and comparative illustrations from Peru and South Africa, to propose and guide multisectoral policy in addressing malnutrition. Effective strategies involve community-based food programs, multisectoral policy integration, and strong nutrition networks. Case studies from Peru, Indonesia, and South Africa demonstrate that the development of local food systems and enhanced dietary diversity can sustainably mitigate malnutrition and decrease dependence on imports. Sustainable, locally grounded food systems are vital to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 and 3. The transformation from gene to plate—integrating production, distribution, and nutrition education—offers a long-term pathway to reducing malnutrition.