A global database of food and nutrient consumption

Abstract

In every region of the world, poor diet is a leading cause of both malnutrition and chronic diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and specific cancers. In 2013, 38.3 million deaths occurred due to chronic diseases globally (70% of all deaths), with most of these deaths occurring in developing countries. Anecdotal evidence and more formal evaluations in a limited number of countries suggest that changes in traditional eating patterns and a growing reliance on new types of foods are major drivers of these transitions. However, data on global patterns of dietary habits, as well as differences by population characteristics are not well established. An empirical assessment of dietary intakes is needed for evidence-based policy-making to address global health challenges