Food for thought

Summary

• Food prices also need attention.
• The government should also take stronger action against unhealthy food.
• We do not simply need more food.

AI Generated Summary

October 5, 2026

The country needs to take concrete steps to reshape what it produces, sells and consumes food. A recent assessment by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations has revealed a serious problem: more than 60 per cent of Pakistan’s population cannot afford a healthy diet.

This is not only a food problem. It is also a public health and economic problem. When people cannot afford fruits, vegetables, pulses, milk and other nutritious foods, they depend more on cheap and filling foods. Pakistan already faces widespread malnutrition, while diseases linked to unhealthy diets are also increasing.