UN: Healthy diet costs rise 25% globally, local African production could cut costs by 80%
The UN Food and Agriculture Organisation reports healthy diet costs have jumped 25% in five years, now requiring $4.28 per day in purchasing power parity dollars. This puts nutritious food out of reach for 2.69 billion people worldwide, including one-third of the global population.
Animal products account for nearly 30% of healthy diet costs, while fruits and vegetables make up 16%. The challenge, according to FAO chief economist Maximo Torero Cullen, isn't producing enough calories but making nutrient-rich foods affordable.
For Africa specifically, the report notes local food production could reduce costs by almost 80% compared to a standardized global food basket. The FAO recommends redirecting government subsidies toward nutrient-rich foods instead of cereals like rice and wheat.
Post-farm costs—including infrastructure and logistics—generate 70-75% of healthy diet expenses. The report cites Latin America and the Caribbean as having the highest costs, possibly due to export emphasis over local affordability.
Uncertain factors for 2026 food prices include potential Strait of Hormuz closure disrupting fertilizer supplies and El Nino weather pattern effects. Should Nigeria prioritize local food production and infrastructure investment to make healthy diets more affordable?