Rigorous Monitoring is Necessary to Guide Food System Transformation in the Countdown to 2030

This study argues that rigorous, science-based monitoring is crucial for tracking food system transformation toward global sustainability goals. It proposes a monitoring framework with five thematic areas: (1) diets, nutrition, and health; (2) environment and climate; (3) livelihoods and equity; (4) governance; and (5) resilience. The authors highlight the importance of accountability in food system governance and suggest that global progress is uneven. Some areas, such as reducing food insecurity and increasing agricultural productivity, show positive trends, while others, such as food affordability and diet quality, remain critical concerns. The study calls for enhanced data collection and cross-sectoral collaboration to ensure evidence-based policymaking.