WWF-UK has partnered with Knorr, Unilever’s largest food brand, to help tackle the negative environmental impacts of global food production. The Future 50 Foods report launched under the partnership reveals a collection of diverse, plant-based foods from around the world that can boost the nutritional value of meals whilst reducing the environmental impact. According to the FAO, 75 percent of the global food supply comes from just 12 crops and 5 animal species. Such a lack of dietary diversity negatively impacts human health as it makes it more difficult to consume various vitamins and minerals. The associated monoculture poses a threat to food security and makes the food system less resilient to pests and impacts of climate change. The report also combines some familiar ingredients — such as lentils, wild rice and kale — with lesser-known foods including fonio, pumpkin flowers and cactus. Many of these have higher yields and are more resilient to challenging weather and environmental conditions, making them prime candidates for helping to reduce the land required for crops in the face of growing climate uncertainty.

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