Global food systems are off track to meet most 2030 targets, with a new assessment of 197 countries finding progress is too slow across health, environmental impact, livelihoods, governance and resilience.
The 2026 Food Systems Countdown analysis assessed 197 countries against 44 indicators, finding fewer than a third are expected to meet their targets for 22 indicators by 2030.
Of the 30 indicators assessed only mobile phone subscriptions, used as a proxy for connectedness and resilience, has already been met by most countries.
Food system greenhouse gas emissions are among the areas furthest off track, with the global average 75% away from the target. No country is projected to meet it at the current rate of progress.
Researchers from the Food Systems Count Down Initiative say faster action is needed on food affordability, food insecurity, government effectiveness and emissions, with food system emissions requiring annual reductions of more than 60% to meet the targets.
However, the study said progress towards 2050 targets remains possible, as for 7 of 33 indicators, at least a third of countries are already on track to meet the 2030 target.
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