UN report finds one in three people cannot afford a healthy diet

The Guardian · July 21, 2026Original source ↗

What happened

A UN report shows that 2.69 billion people globally cannot afford a diverse diet that meets their energy and nutrient needs. While global hunger has declined for the third consecutive year, experts stress the need for actions to reduce the costs of fruits, vegetables, and dairy.

Why it matters

This issue highlights the significant barrier to accessing nutritious food for a large portion of the global population.

How this story affects people

How does this story affect you if you rent your home?

Renters may face challenges in affording healthy food options, as rising living costs can limit their disposable income for groceries. This could lead to a reliance on cheaper, less nutritious food, impacting their overall health.

How does this story affect you if you are a parent?

Parents may struggle to provide their children with a diverse and nutritious diet due to financial constraints highlighted in the report. This situation can affect children's growth and development, as well as their long-term health.

How does this story affect you if you are an hourly worker?

Hourly workers, often earning lower wages, may find it increasingly difficult to afford healthy food, as the report indicates that a significant portion of the global population cannot meet their dietary needs. This can lead to poorer health outcomes and increased healthcare costs.

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