Why do whole grains matter for the whole world?

The climate crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic have shed light on the growing importance of resilient, sustainable and health-enabling food systems. For policy makers, it is crucial to tackle the double challenge of providing food security to a growing global population while ensuring a smooth transition to sustainable food systems and healthier diets.

Whole grains are the best ally to overcome current societal challenges: they have a minimal environmental impact, are nutritionally dense and weather resistant. Grains are far less resource-intensive to produce and require significantly less water than just about any other food we consume. There is consistent evidence to support the health benefits of whole grains, including a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and colorectal cancer.

On the occasion of our 4^th Annual International Whole Grain Day celebration, opinion leaders from all around the world will gather to discuss the importance of whole grains to achieve sustainable, healthy and resilient food systems worldwide.

Join the Whole Grain Initiative, Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), World Food Programme (WFP) and a host of global key opinion leaders to discuss how the daily consumption of whole grains is a vital part of healthy and sustainable diets that can ensure food security worldwide. The first panel discussion will focus on the contribution of whole grains to food system sustainability and food security. In a second panel, experts will share consumer insights and discuss critical policy actions needed to nudge consumers toward a more plant-based diet that includes whole grains.