Nutrition Insight reviews 2024: Future-proof diets, AI-powered personalization and targeted innovations

As we look forward to ringing in the new year, Nutrition Insight revisits some of the biggest news of 2024. From the use of AI to advance personalized nutrition or uncover new nutraceutical compounds to reports on the effects of climate change, overfishing and rising malnutrition, the nutrition industry witnessed several pivotal developments, innovations and challenges in 2024. Sustainability and nutrition equity took center stage as policymakers, non-governmental organizations and businesses moved to tackle malnutrition, the problems of the global aging society and a multitude of modern issues while creating ingredients to fulfill evolving consumer demands. Join us as we look back on a year filled with advancements in nutraceuticals, supplements, health technologies, future-proof nutrition security and much more.

January

Regulating CBD: ACI puts pressure on FSA and UK Home Office to speed up authorization process
The Association for the Cannabinoid Industry (ACI) urged the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) and the Home Office to expedite the authorization process for ingestible cannabidiol (CBD) products. ACI stressed the need for a more efficient system to prevent market stagnation and ensure consumer access to safe and regulated products. We looked at the association’s call to action, which addressed delays and complexities in the current regulatory process and highlighted the importance of swift and clear guidelines for the growing CBD industry.

The Future of Health: Gates Foundation spearheads 11th-hour campaign to lift people out of poverty
The Gates Foundation increased its philanthropic budget to US$8.6 billion with the goal of driving health innovations and lifting people out of poverty by 2030. The organization said it would focus on reducing health inequities, particularly in low-income countries, by developing tools to combat infectious diseases and child mortality. Featured at the “The Future of Health” event, the Foundation showcased innovations like AI-assisted diagnostics and vaccine patches. Other proposed efforts included addressing maternal and infant mortality and malnutrition.A longitudinal study revealed a staggering amount of marine resource mismanagement across the globe.

Staggering global marine resource mismanagement uncovered in longitudinal analysis
A comprehensive study revealed significant mismanagement of global marine resources. The longitudinal analysis, which spanned several decades, found widespread inefficiency in marine resource utilization. Moreover, the mismanagement led to substantial losses, negatively impacting marine ecosystems and the global fishing industry. We spoke with the study’s lead author, who highlighted the need for improved management strategies to harness marine resources sustainably while protecting ocean environments.

World Economic Forum: Hologram Sciences unveils AI potential to unlock precision nutrition
At the 2024 World Economic Forum, Hologram Sciences showcased AI’s potential to revolutionize personalized healthcare and nutrition. We talked with the company’s co-founder and CEO about how its AI-driven Precision Nutrition Platform, designed to optimize dietary plans based on individual health and sustainability considerations, could represent a significant advancement in addressing malnutrition in clinical settings.

New survey says Canadians strongly support using psychedelics for patients at end-of-life
A survey revealed strong support among Canadians for using psychedelic substances like psilocybin to treat terminally ill patients experiencing existential distress. The survey found that 79% of respondents endorsed this therapeutic use. While the production, sale and possession of psilocybin are currently prohibited in Canada, a special access program allows exemptions for medical or scientific reasons.

February

Global nutrition threatened by climate change-related wheat disease, experts flag
Experts warned that climate change is exacerbating the spread of a devastating wheat disease, posing a global nutrition threat. The disease could significantly impact food security and nutrition as wheat is a staple food for over one-third of the global population. We talked with the study’s lead author, who underscored the urgent need to develop disease-resistant wheat varieties and adopt sustainable agricultural practices to mitigate this threat and ensure a stable food supply in the face of changing climate conditions.

Final frontier: Astronauts’ microbiomes go under the microscope to advance deep space missions
We sat down with the chief technology officer at the Cosmic Shielding Corporation, who told us research into astronauts’ microbiomes is pivotal for deep space mission success. Scientists are examining how microgravity affects the human microbiome, vital for astronauts’ health and mission performance. The study endeavored to understand changes in microbiome composition during space travel, potentially leading to tailored diets or supplements to maintain astronaut health on long missions.

“Stop satellite-assisted slaughter in oceans”: Campaign casts spotlight on Iridium
Environmental advocates urged the UK satellite company Iridium to halt providing real-time tracking services to the tuna fishing industry in the Indian Ocean. We spoke with a trustee at UK Shark Guardian and a professor of marine conservation at Exeter University, UK, who argued the practice could cause overfishing. We also looked at a campaign aimed at protecting marine life by limiting the industry’s ability to locate and harvest tuna at unsustainable rates. Additionally, the campaign pointed to the broader issue of satellite technology’s role in fishing practices and its impact on ocean ecosystems.The Cosmic Shielding Corporation spoke with us about its plans to study the microbiome of astronauts for deep space travel.

Nutri-Score creator doubles down on system accuracy amid industry opposition
In a conversation with Serge Hercberg, the creator of the Nutri-Score labeling system, he defended its accuracy against recent industry criticisms. Hercberg responded to concerns raised by Stephan Peters of the Dutch Dairy Association, who questioned the system’s validity. Despite opposition from some food and beverage manufacturers, the Nutri-Score aims to provide consumers with easy-to-understand nutritional information. Hercberg stressed the system’s scientific basis and its role in promoting healthier eating choices among consumers.

Industry bites back: Unilever, Nestlé, Ferrero and Coca-Cola dispute reliance on unhealthy F&B sales
We talked with several leading F&B companies, including Unilever, Nestlé, Ferrero and Coca-Cola, who contested the findings of the Bite Back report, which claims many of these companies predominantly sell unhealthy products in the UK. The report, which assessed the 2022 product offerings of the country’s ten largest global F&B businesses, suggested that for seven companies, at least two-thirds of packaged F&B sales came from products high in fat, sugar or salt. The companies argued against these conclusions and spotlighted efforts toward healthier product portfolios.

March

From awareness to action: dsm-firmenich spotlights urgent need for DHA in maternal nutrition
During Women’s History Month, dsm-firmenich emphasized the importance of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in maternal nutrition. We sat down with the company’s science translation and advocacy segment lead for early life nutrition, who highlighted a significant gap in maternal diets concerning DHA intake and underscored the urgent need for increased awareness and action. The discussion focused on the benefits of DHA for mothers and their developing babies, stressing its role in the growth and development of the fetal brain and eyes. Additionally, we discussed how maternal and infant health could be improved by advocating for enhanced nutritional guidance and the inclusion of DHA in prenatal nutrition programs.

Wave of awareness needed for women in Mediterranean and Black Sea fisheries
Researchers emphasized the need for increased awareness regarding the roles and contributions of women in the fisheries sector of the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions. A study pointed out that women’s contribution in this area is often under-recognized and deserves greater visibility and support for women’s crucial roles in this industry. We spoke with the fishery officer for socio-economic issues at the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean and the UN FAO, who called for action to ensure their inclusion in decision-making processes and access to resources, aiming to improve gender equality and empower women in the fishing community.dsm-firmenich spoke with us about its campaign to spotlight the importance of prenatal DHA supplementation.

Novonesis touts pioneering probiotic Clepius L. Plantarum’s approval for gut and brain health claims
We talked with Novonesis’ head of global scientific advisory for human health about its health claims authorizations for its probiotic strain Clepius L. plantarum for gut and brain health benefits. Health Canada’s approval highlighted the strain’s potential in relieving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in adults and supporting overall intestinal and gastrointestinal health. Additionally, it acknowledged Clepius L. plantarum’s role in alleviating perceived stress and improving the quality of life-related to IBS.

NPEW 2024: Spotlight on innovations in brain, mood and mental health
Natural Products Expo West (NPEW) 2024 showcased a range of innovations in brain, mood and mental health supplements. Experts from Kyowa Hakko USA, FrieslandCampina Ingredients and Beneo told us about the new products and scientific advancements targeting cognitive function, stress relief and overall mental well-being while presenting various formulations incorporating traditional and novel ingredients. The companies emphasized the growing consumer interest in natural and effective solutions for mental health support and underscored the industry’s focus on evidence-based claims and the integration of cutting-edge research to meet the rising demand for mental health products.

Roquette to acquire IFF Pharma Solutions to boost global excipient presence
Roquette announced the acquisition of IFF Pharma Solutions to enhance its global presence among pharmaceutical excipients. We examined the strategic move, which was expected to close in Q2 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. Roquette said the acquisition would allow it to broaden its product portfolio and reinforce its commitment to supporting the pharmaceutical industry’s needs in the health and wellness sectors.

April

Elevating brain health with Fonterra’s breakthrough probiotic and phospholipid solutions
We spoke with Fonterra’s marketing manager for advanced nutrition about the growth of the cognition-boosting health ingredients market. Rudy highlighted that Fonterra’s Nutiani brand focuses on scientifically validated cognitive support ingredients. This includes its extensively studied HN019 and HN001 probiotic strains, which have been proven effective in digestive and immune health trials. Fonterra’s offerings also incorporate natural phospholipids that mimic those in the human brain, which aid in managing stress and improving focus. Rudy said the company will continue to innovate and develop multifunctional solutions that meet consumer demand for dietary supplements and food and beverage applications that support mood, stress, mental resilience and sleep.

Scaling nature: Spotlight on the power of AI for innovative nutrition
We sat down with the CEO of PIPA along with Brightseed’s medical and scientific affairs director to discuss how the companies harness AI to propel innovation in the nutrition industry. PIPA uses AI to scale natural biochemical processes sustainably, while Brightseed’s AI platform, Forager, identifies bioactives for health benefits. Both companies tout AI’s potential to speed up experimentation and enhance product development, targeting efficient and scientifically backed solutions in nutrition.Nestlé talked with us regarding accusations the company added sugar to infant nutrition products in poorer countries.

Nestlé responds to accusations of adding sugar to infant nutrition sold in poorer countries
An investigative report by the Swiss NGO The Public Eye stated that Nestlé’s infant nutrition products in low- and middle-income countries contain higher levels of added sugar than similar products in wealthier nations. The report criticized the disparity in nutritional quality and urged Nestlé to maintain higher standards globally. Nestlé defended its practices, saying its products meet local regulations and international standards.

Arla Foods Ingredients acquires Volac’s whey business to boost performance nutrition presence
Arla Foods Ingredients revealed it would acquire the whey nutrition division of Volac, a UK-based dairy ingredient producer. The company emphasized that the acquisition would bolster its global production capabilities and its product offerings in the performance, health and food sectors. The acquisition also integrated Volac’s expertise in whey protein for sports nutrition into Arla Foods Ingredients’ operations.

Real world benefits: Overcoming global nutrition challenges at UC Davis
We talked with experts from the University of California (UC) Davis who are tackling significant nutrition challenges such as affordability, malnutrition, obesity and sustainability through solutions in food and health. The dean of UC Davis’s Graduate School of Management stated that affordable nutrition is necessary to prevent major health issues and explore sustainable practices that reduce reliance on animal-based foods. UC Davis’ initiatives include enhancing protein utilization to improve health outcomes globally and locally and focusing on regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and Guatemala, where dietary improvements can drastically enhance health and economic conditions.

May

CARE calls for urgent action against hunger and gender inequality crises in conflict zones
The humanitarian organization CARE called for immediate international action to end the hunger crisis affecting people in conflict zones such as Haiti, Gaza and Sudan. According to CARE, the 2024 Global Report on Food Crises found that 281 million people in 59 countries experienced significant food insecurity in 2023. It also found that conflicts exacerbated these issues. The organization’s humanitarian advocacy advisor talked with us about the role that gender inequality plays in perpetuating food insecurity and stressed that countries with greater gender disparities often face more severe food crises.

Vitafoods Europe 2024 live: Cargill spotlights innovations for “health that lasts a lifetime”
Cargill’s managing director for specialized nutrition and supplements told us about the company’s most recent innovations in lifespan nutrition at the Vitafoods Europe 2024 trade show. The company spotlighted the importance of the “first 1,000 days” of a child’s life. Additionally, we discussed Cargill’s ingredients for infant formula and its expertise in infant-grade oils and carbohydrates. The company touted its algal-based DHA, which is crucial for the brain development of infants and young children.ADM and Sirio Pharma discussed women’s health supplement innovations with us at this year’s Vitafoods Europe trade show.

Director of IFOAM Organics Europe highlights challenges and opportunities facing the industry
As the June EU parliamentary elections approached, we sat down with the director of IFOAM Organics Europe, who outlined challenges and opportunities for the EU’s organic farming and food industry. The director stressed the need for policymakers to support organic farming. IFOAM also highlighted the environmental and socioeconomic benefits of organic farming, such as increased agrobiodiversity and healthier soil that stores more carbon. Additionally, the organization said these practices can help revitalize rural economies and promote healthier lifestyles.

Women’s health at Vitafoods: ADM and Sirio Pharma spotlight supplement innovations
Women’s health emerged as a key theme at Vitafoods Europe this year. We talked with experts from ADM and Sirio Pharma, who emphasized the need for products that cater to the many stages of a woman’s life. Sirio Pharma launched a women’s health platform at the event, which featured 25 concepts in diverse delivery formats, such as soft gels and gummies. ADM said it was focusing on menopausal women, as over one billion women are projected to be in menopause by 2025. The company also highlighted the need for solutions that address the diverse symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes and sleep disturbances.

Climate-positive production: Water and energy targets lead the charge as circular goals shape business strategy
For our special report, we sat down with Bioiberica’s CEO and FrieslandCampina Ingredients’ head of sustainability to discuss climate-positive production. FrieslandCampina Ingredients explained ways to remove more CO2 than is produced during manufacturing. The company also stated that setting measurable goals, like those from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), is important. Bioiberica revealed it has held certifications, such as ISO 14001, for over 25 years. The company also participates in the SBTi and has a goal of reaching climate neutrality by 2050. Both companies said they are committed to reducing scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.

June

Study suggests Beneo’s Palatinose isomaltulose stimulates GLP-1 release in overweight adults
We spoke with the head of nutrition science at Beneo about a new study that demonstrated that its Palatinose isomaltulose can stimulate the release of GLP-1 in overweight adults — potentially aiding in obesity management and type 2 diabetes. Conducted by the University of Alberta, Canada, the research found that when participants consumed Palatinose, it led to an increased secretion of GLP-1 compared to those who consumed other types of sugars. GLP-1 is a hormone involved in regulating blood sugar and appetite control, and the research suggests that Palatinose could help reduce food intake and enhance blood glucose control.

Mental health mushrooms: Spotlight on Lion’s Mane research and knowledge gaps
We talked with Dr. Ellen Smith, the co-author of a recent study on the potential mental health benefits of Lion’s Mane mushrooms and existing research gaps that need addressing. The study found that Lion’s Mane can stimulate nerve growth factor synthesis, which could potentially improve brain function and mental health. Despite promising results, the research on Lion’s Mane is still in its early stages, with many studies being preliminary or conducted on animals and experts in the field have called for more rigorous clinical trials to validate these findings in humans.We spoke with industry experts about the booming Chinese probiotics market at HNC and Hi & Fi Asia-China.

KHNI explores the trends, advancements and versatile health benefits of postbiotics
KHNI held a webinar to delve into the emerging trends, advancements and broad health benefits of postbiotics. The event highlighted the growing body of research and increasing patent filings in the realm of postbiotics, emphasizing their potential beyond digestive health to include immune and cognitive benefits. We talked with the senior RDA manager for immune and joint health at Kerry about how this interest is fueled by a greater understanding of the interconnectedness of bodily systems and the aging population’s desire for healthy aging.

HNC and Hi & Fi Asia-China live: Spotlight on booming Chinese probiotics market
The HNC and Hi & Fi Asia-China live events spotlighted China’s rapidly growing probiotics market. It saw significant expansion due to increased consumer awareness about health and wellness, particularly regarding digestive health and immune support. We talked with experts from BioGrowing, Probi and IFF Health, who emphasized the need for robust scientific research and high manufacturing standards to meet regulatory requirements and consumer expectations.

UN High Seas Treaty ratification draws close amid marine nutrition scarcity concerns
The ratification of the UN High Seas Treaty approached completion amid rising concerns about marine nutrition scarcity. We examined the treaty, which intends to preserve marine biodiversity — a crucial concern due to the declining health of ocean ecosystems. The High Seas, known as areas beyond national jurisdiction, contain vital sources of nutrition and livelihood for billions globally and are among the least protected places on earth. Experts highlighted the need for the treaty, as the high seas, which cover nearly half of the planet’s surface, are under threat from overfishing, pollution and climate change. According to the treaty, these issues not only endanger marine species but also threaten the food security of populations dependent on marine resources.

July

School Food Matters calls on new UK government to ensure school children’s access to adequate nutrition
On the heels of the Labour Party forming a new government for the first time in 14 years following the UK’s latest election, we spoke with Stephanie Slater, the founder and CE of School Food Matters. The NGO urged the new administration to boost food and nutrition security for children and emphasized the need to reform the school food system to support Labour’s Child Health Action Plan goal of creating the healthiest generation ever. The NGO’s 2024 Manifesto called for fully funded, nutritious and sustainable school meals for all children, as well as breakfast clubs and permanent School Fruit and Vegetable Scheme funding.CJ Bio talked with us about the company’s nutritional innovations at its headquarters in Seoul, South Korea.

IFT First 2024: Kyowa Hakko targets functional F&B with cognition and immune-boosting ingredients
At this year’s IFT First 2024 trade show, we sat down with Karen Todd, the VP of global brand marketing at Kyowa Hakko, US, to discuss how the company’s premium citicoline ingredient, Cognizin, can be incorporated into functional protein bars, gummies, lollipops and beverages. According to Todd, Cognizin enhances brain function by increasing acetylcholine levels, which aids focus, attention and memory. We also talked about its immune health offering Immuse — a Non-GMO Project Verified solution that supports immunity and gut health.

Warmer waters: EFSA warns of the spread of “fleshing-eating” bacteria in seafood
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) released a new assessment indicating that climate change would increase the prevalence of Vibrio spp. bacteria in seafood globally and across Europe, particularly in low salinity or brackish waters. At the same time, antimicrobial resistance in these bacteria is a growing concern, with resistance to critical antibiotics becoming more common in certain strains. We spoke with the EFSA about the public health risks associated with Vibrio spp. from seafood consumption, including gastroenteritis and severe infections.

Innovative and sustainable: CJ BIO’s latest offerings at the forefront of nutritional wellness
At CJ BIO’s headquarters in Seoul, South Korea, we caught up with Steve Pak, the company’s chief marketing officer to discuss the company’s latest nutritional innovations. Pak told us about CJ BIO’s new microbiome and gut axes brand BiomeNrich. BiomeNrich features condition-specific postbiotics and the first product in the range for Sleep & Skin functionality. He also detailed how CJ Bio’s technological edge lies in its fermentation expertise and explained that the company employs a value design strategy and utilizes thousands of patented strains, including Lactobacillus plantarum, to innovate products.

August

Burdensome mandatory supplement listing proposal sparks controversy, CSPI calls for “broader reforms”
Many US trade associations representing the supplement industry oppose the recently proposed Dietary Supplement Listing Act of 2024, with reactions ranging from “misguided,” “unnecessary” and “burdensome” to the proposal being “too limited.” A bill proposed by US Senator Richard Durbin would have introduced mandatory supplement listing in a US FDA database. We examine the industry’s feedback and suggestions for alternative and additional reforms and speak with the regulatory counsel for the Council for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) about the proposed legislation.

Advancing sports nutrition: Rousselot spotlights the multifunctional benefits of collagen
Consumer demand for science-backed sports nutrition and post-workout recovery solutions is on the rise. At the same time, athletes and weekend warriors alike say they want convenient products in formats that are easy to access, use and carry. We sat down with Florencia Moreno Torres, the health and nutrition global business development manager at Rousselot, for an in-depth look at the latest trends and innovative ingredients advancing the sports nutrition and workout recovery spaces and to get a glimpse at how the company’s collagen innovations meet these growing needs.Gnosis by Lesaffre and Tirlán told us about the latest trends in the healthy aging market.

Bone strength boosts: Gnosis by Lesaffre and Tirlán reveal emerging healthy aging trends
Experts point out that consumers are looking to prepare for the effects of aging at younger and younger ages. At the same time, bone strength and health are emerging as major concerns in light of the global challenges presented by an aging population. We sat down with Xavier Berger, the market manager for mobility and joint health at Gnosis by Lesaffre and Gwen Gould, the senior marketing manager for dairy ingredients at Tirlán, to better understand trends, factors and ingredients driving innovation in the growing bone strength and healthy aging space.

Global skepticism about the safety of drinking water at an all-time high, study flags
More than half of adults worldwide said they expect to be seriously harmed by their water within the next two years, according to a recent survey. We caught up with two of the authors of the study led by international health experts from Northwestern University and the University of North Carolina, US, who provided valuable insights about public perceptions of drinking water safety. The researchers pointed out how the growing distrust in water quality negatively impacts health, nutrition, psychological and economic well-being — even when the water meets safety standards — because perceptions shape attitudes and behaviors.

September

Latest USDA report reveals growing food insecurity among US households
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported that 13.5% of US households, around 18 million people, experienced food insecurity in 2023, marking an increase from 12.8% in 2022. Approximately 47.4 million people were affected, up from 33.8 million two years prior. Moreover, about 7.2 million children are living in food-insecure households. The USDA reported that incidents of very low food security were steady at 5.1%, indicating severe levels of food access problems due to financial constraints. We discussed these findings with experts from the Center for Science in the Public Interest, the Food Research and Action Center and Vitamin Angels, who highlighted that while food safety net programs exist, they do not fully address underlying issues of poverty and systemic barriers that restrict low-income families’ food choices.The US FDA warned of growing food insecurity in family households.

Subpar supplements: Research reveals substantial adulteration in popular botanicals
The American Botanical Council’s (ABC) Botanical Adulterants Prevention Program analyzed 78 publications and 2,995 samples, revealing adulteration rates between 16.5% and 56.7% for five botanicals. We talked to the study’s co-author and chief science officer at ABC, who highlighted that adulteration remains a significant issue within the botanical supplement industry, despite many manufacturers producing high-quality products.

Revolutionizing early life nutrition: Lallemand Health Solutions’ latest probiotic innovations
Lallemand Health Solutions highlighted the benefits of its probiotic offerings for early-life nutrition and development, emphasizing their role in strengthening digestion and bolstering natural defenses in babies, as well as influencing the gut-brain axis and enhancing metabolic health. The product manager at Lallemand Health Solutions, illustrated the company’s latest innovations in infant nutrition and its partnership with dsm-firmenich and detailed its focus on developing probiotic supplements that support a well-balanced gut microbiome in infants.

Mozambique in crisis: CARE director calls for action as millions face hunger
The international female-focused developmental organization CARE revealed that the ongoing droughts in the north of Mozambique further strained the already sensitive food insecurity situation in conflict-affected areas of the country. We sat down with the director of CARE Mozambique, who detailed the rarely talked about nutrition crisis, noting that there was no single cause for the country’s situation. CARE spotlighted the need for increased support in the regions as by October, it predicted that 3.3 million Mozambique residents — including 144,000 children and nearly 24,000 pregnant and breastfeeding women — would need specialized malnutrition treatment.

October

Looking forward: Innova Market Insights unveils the top five nutrition trends for 2025
As the nutrition industry continues to adapt to increasing consumer preferences for personalized, natural and multifunctional solutions that are supported by scientific research and available at affordable prices, we looked at the main insights from our webinar on the Top Nutrition Trends for 2025, conducted in conjunction with Innova Market Insights. The five key trends identified were Nutrition Forward, Weight Management, Nutrition for All Budgets, Genderized Nutrition and Natural Well-Being.Lu Ann Williams, co-founder and Global Insights Director of Innova Market Insights, told us about the top five nutrition trends for 2025, including Nutrition Forward, Weight Management, Nutrition for All Budgets and more.

CPHI 2024: Spotlight on natural nutraceuticals for beauty, stress and sports nutrition
At CPHI 2024, the spotlight was on natural nutraceuticals targeting beauty, stress management, weight management and sports nutrition. Industry leaders, including SuanNutra, ADM, Natural Remedies and Angel Yeast, showcased their latest natural solutions on the show floor. Discussions revolved around innovative products and applications in these key health areas, reflecting the growing consumer demand for natural and effective health supplements.

National School Lunch Week: FRAC celebrates US meal program for students
During National School Lunch Week, the US focused on the importance of school meals for children’s well-being and educational success. We spoke with the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC) about the federal National School Lunch Program, which provides nutritious meals to nearly 30 million children each school day. FRAC used the occasion to advocate for policies ensuring healthy meals for all students, highlighting the vital support school lunches offer, especially for low-income children.

World Food Day: Zero Hidden Hunger EU combats micronutrient deficiencies with new policy lab
On World Food Day, the Zero Hidden Hunger EU project launched a new policy lab to address micronutrient deficiencies in the EU. This initiative, orchestrated by the European Public Health Alliance, brought together policymakers in Brussels, Belgium, to discuss potential solutions. Experts from the project told us about the absence of comprehensive data on micronutrient deficiencies in Europe and emphasized that this lack of data is a significant barrier to tackling hidden hunger.

November

G20: Brazil and India lead Global South in tackling hunger, poverty and nutrition crisis
At this year’s G20 summit on “building a just world and a sustainable planet,” Brazil and India shined a spotlight on the Global South, which includes regions of Asia, Africa and Latin America. Nutrition took center stage at the summit, with leaders spotlighting programs to combat hunger, enhance food security and ensure equitable support for vulnerable groups. Brazil hosted the intergovernmental forum, and its president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, said: “Those who have always been invisible will be at the center of the international agenda.”

Trump’s win sparks concerns over food security, nutrition programs and women’s health
On the heels of Donald Trump’s election to the US presidency, we consulted with experts from the CSPI and FRAC and the CEO of Proov, on how the political shift could reshape the country’s food security and health policies. The organizations revealed major industry and nutrition concerns, notably threats to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, worries of increased food and nutrition insecurity and the potential of impingements on women’s health issues as regulatory barriers are eased.The election of Donald J. Trump to a second term as the US President sparked concerns of nutrition security and women’s health (Image Credit: DonaldTrump.com).

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination for US health secretary garners mixed industry reactions
President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as secretary of the US Department of Health and Human Services resulted in contrasting industry responses. Some stakeholders welcomed Kennedy’s promise of reform to the department and its agencies, while others worried about the “anti-scientific” positions held by the nominee. We caught up with experts from the CSPI, the Natural Products Association, Alkemist Labs and the Council of Responsible Nutrition to examine the possible problems and opportunities inherent in his professed positions.

Famine fears: UN calls for action as Gaza faces malnutrition and starvation risk
UN experts warned of imminent famine risk in northern Gaza, Palestine, and urged intervention to prevent the crisis. “Immediate action, within days, not weeks, is required from all actors who are directly taking part in the conflict or who have an influence on its conduct, to avert and alleviate this catastrophic situation,” underlined the Integrated Phase Classification (IPC) Famine Review Committee. According to the most recent IPC Snapshot Report, the entire Gaza Strip was experiencing acute food insecurity and the analysis warned that the whole Gaza Strip risks famine between November 2024 and April 2025.

December

Holiday snacking: Experts contest results of new research linking dark chocolate to lower diabetes risk
Researchers suggested that increasing dark chocolate consumption could potentially reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, experts not involved in the research warned that its observational nature prevents establishing a cause-and-effect relationship, and the low diabetes occurrence among dark chocolate consumers could lead to statistical uncertainties. A new long-term US study associated five weekly servings of dark chocolate with a 10% reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, with over five servings linked to a 21% lower risk. However, no significant association was found for milk chocolate, which, when consumed in excess, was tied to long-term weight gain. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, US, researchers analyzed data from three observational studies involving 111,654 participants who initially did not have diabetes, cardiovascular disease or cancer.

Balchem improves magnesium absorption with mineral chelation technology
Amid growing market interest in magnesium for its stress and sleep benefits, Balchem highlighted the challenges of achieving bioavailability and digestive tolerance. Albion Minerals, a Balchem brand, addressed these issues by binding magnesium molecules to glycine. Before their upcoming webinar titled “Navigating the Jungle of Magnesium Bioavailability,” Nutrition Insight spoke with Oliver Riemann, senior manager of Marketing and Business Development at Albion Minerals. In this webinar, Riemann and Dr. Eric Ciappio, Balchem’s senior manager of Nutrition Science, discussed the magnesium market and showcased Albion magnesium bisglycinate chelate for its high bioavailability.A study found that dark chocolate consumption instead of milk chocolate may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

FDA proposes mandatory front-of-package labels for better health outcomes
The US FDA intensified efforts to tackle the obesity and diabetes crises, focusing on front-of-package (FOP) nutrition labeling, sodium reduction and revising “healthy” food claims. The agency also encouraged the food industry to offer healthier options, emphasizing the role of ultra-processed foods in poor nutrition. The FDA believes that FOP nutrition labeling could enhance consumer awareness. Recently, the agency’s commissioner for food and drugs, Robert M. Califf, M.D., along with deputy commissioner for human foods, Jim Jones, presented a proposal for mandatory diabetes and obesity labels on healthy food and beverage products at hearings before House and Senate Committees and Subcommittees.

COP16: Family farmers lead climate resilience and nutrition security efforts
Saudi Arabia hosted the UN Convention to Combat Desertification COP16, focusing on land restoration, tenure and drought resilience. At the event, Stephen Muchiri, CEO of the Eastern African Farmers Federation, discussed how farmers in ten countries are adopting agroecological practices and sustainable technologies to combat climate change and enhance food security. He highlighted that family farmers produce 70% of Africa’s food, contributing to diverse, nutritious diets and combating malnutrition. Muchiri emphasized the importance of family farmers in building resilient food systems, advocating for fair trade policies and promoting traditional crop varieties. He called for stronger policy support, fair pricing and targeted climate finance to ensure their success.

Bayer Consumer Health uses AI to optimize personalized nutrition and healthy aging
Bayer Consumer Health emphasized the significance of enhancing people’s healthspan over merely extending lifespan amid a globally aging population. In a discussion with Aquil Harjivan, head of front-end innovation, we explored Bayer’s advancements in precision health for longevity and the role of AI in personalizing nutrition to empower consumers. Bayer recently introduced the Age Factor ecosystem, a comprehensive health offering by its Precision Health business unit, combining the One A Day Age Factor Cell Defense supplement, a companion app and Hurdle’s saliva-based biological age test. Harjivan noted that the initiative arose from realizing that consumers often lack precise knowledge about how supplements affect their health.