UN warns 2.7 billion people cannot afford nutritious food

The United Nations warned that roughly 2.7 billion people – about one‑third of the global population – cannot afford a basic, nutritious diet. Prices for protein‑rich foods, fruits and vegetables have risen by about 25 % over the past five years, pushing the daily cost of a diet that meets essential nutritional needs to $4.28 per person, above the $3.00 extreme‑poverty threshold.

The cost increase is driven mainly by expensive nutrient‑dense items, while staple calories such as grains and tubers remain inexpensive. The UN calls for policies that prioritize the financial accessibility of nutrient‑rich foods rather than solely increasing overall food volume, noting that inadequate nutrition contributes to major health issues including cancer, diabetes and heart disease.