A snapshot of food-based dietary guidelines implementation in selected countries

Governments use food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) to outline what constitutes a healthy diet to guide their population. The potential of FBDGs to align national food-related policies and programmes is increasingly recognized but information on FBDG implementation is scarce. We conducted a key informant survey in 27 countries. Several types of implementation activities were identified within various sectors and settings, although there were few examples from low- and middle-income countries. Most countries had an official body responsible for implementation, but a strategy/plan for implementation and budget allocation were less common, and very few collected monitoring and evaluation data. We argue for a food systems approach that involves sectors beyond nutrition and health in the development and implementation of FBDGs, to facilitate the alignment of policies that aim to promote healthy eating.

Automated summary

The study found that while many countries have official bodies responsible for implementing food-based dietary guidelines, there are still gaps in implementation strategies, budget allocation, and data monitoring. A food systems approach involving various sectors is needed to promote the coordination of policies aimed at healthy eating.