DUBAI, 13 February 2022 (WAM), — The world faces an urgent task: transform food systems to ensure a sustainable future, and ensure that everyone has access to safe, affordable, and adequate food.
Mariam Al Mheiri (UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment), delivered this message at her keynote address at Gulfood Inspire Summit, the all-new, action-oriented summit that took place on the first day at Gulfood 2022 at Dubai World Trade Centre.
Al Mheiri presented the latest statistics showing that almost 811 million people are suffering from hunger. One in three people worldwide is not able to access adequate food due to conflict, climate change, and the global pandemics.
The UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment called for action and said that the process to address the increasing challenge must be inclusive, creative, and data-driven. This will help inform policies to boost food supply and eliminate food insecurity.
She spoke to attendees about how the UAE was leading in agtech investment, including Food Tech Valley, a ground-breaking project that she described as a “playground”, for pioneering agtech solutions for arid climates like the UAE.
The minister appealed to everyone at Gulfood 20, the 27th annual F&B sourcing event in the world, to join the cause by thinking about how they choose what food to eat, how they prepare it, and how much they waste.
Paul Newnham, Director of SDG2 Advocacy Hub (which brings together NGOs. agricultural networks. nutritionists. campaigners, civil society and United Nations agencies) echoed these sentiments, telling attendees that food can be a driver for change.
Newnham believes that everyone needs to think more holistically about food, and how they interact with it.
Gulfood Inspire continues Monday, February 14th with key sessions like the rising role and importance of cloud kitchens, starting a food company in emerging markets, and balancing sustainability with profitability.
Gulfood 2022 will adhere to strict safety and hygiene standards. The DWTC has demonstrated its ability to provide the safest environment for face-to–face business meetings and to deliver world-class events that adhere to the highest safety protocols.
