As we approach World Food Day, it is essential to reflect on the ongoing issue of food poverty, which continues to affect millions worldwide. Food poverty is not simply a matter of hunger; it is a complex issue tied to inequality, lack of access to healthy and nutritious food, and structural barriers within our food systems. Addressing this issue cannot be seen as an act of charity—it is a societal necessity that requires collective responsibility.  

In the UK, the food poverty rate is among the highest in Europe, with 7.2 million people – roughly 11% of the UK population – experiencing food poverty in 2022/23. Four million children were reported to be food insecure in the UK in 2022.  

Food poverty also brings with it hidden economic costs. When people suffer from "hidden hunger" or malnutrition, it places an enormous strain on our NHS and social health services, not to mention the economic downtime caused when individuals fall ill and cannot work. Addressing food poverty is not only a moral imperative, but it is also crucial for the well-being and productivity of society as a whole.

A holistic approach to addressing food poverty 

For too long, the burden of food poverty has been shouldered by charitable organisations and food banks, offering temporary relief to those in crisis. While these efforts are critical, they are not sustainable solutions. We need to move beyond treating food insecurity as a charitable endeavour and start viewing it as a systemic issue that requires the involvement of all sectors of society. 

What we need is a holistic approach that brings together governments, businesses, local communities, and individuals to co-create a food system that works for everyone. This means implementing policies that ensure equitable access to nutritious, affordable food, regardless of income or location. Governments must invest in sustainable food systems, while businesses should prioritise innovations that promote healthy eating without sacrificing affordability. 

At the local level, community-driven initiatives such as urban agriculture, food cooperatives, and educational programmes that teach people how to grow, cook, and consume healthy food can make a real difference. Schools, healthcare providers, and social enterprises can play pivotal roles in this effort by promoting nutrition education and ensuring that vulnerable populations are supported. 

Stepping up together 

This World Food Day, the fact that millions of people are affected by devastating hunger should serve as a wake-up call to step up together. Food poverty is not an isolated issue. It is a reflection of our broader societal inequalities. To truly address it, all players must step up. The responsibility does not solely rest on food banks or charitable organisations, but on all of us. Governments must strengthen social safety nets, businesses must innovate responsibly, and communities must come together to ensure that no one is left behind. 

By recognising food security as a societal necessity, we can create a future where access to nutritious food is not a privilege, but a right. This holistic, collective approach is the only way we can tackle food poverty effectively, ensuring that we build stronger, more resilient communities.