ABSTRACT
The global burden of malnutrition remains unacceptably high. Malnutrition is a universal issue restricting development and slowing progress. Malnutrition is responsible for more illness and ill-health than any other cause worldwide. Despite underlying determinants of undernutrition being well understood for decades, millions of children worldwide face multiple malnutrition burdens, and women face a higher burden than men when it comes to malnutrition due to higher nutrient needs. Despite these alarming statistics, significant strides are being made. Globally, stunting rates among children have declined and many countries are on their way to achieving at least one nutritional status target for 2025. However, a broader range of stakeholders must be more fully engaged if malnutrition is to be reduced in a sustainable manner, including increased engagement from the private sector. To support achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal of ending all forms of malnutrition (goal 2.2), there must be urgent and decisive actions by all stakeholders to address existing data gaps, present new food systems innovations, ensure nutritious diets for all, fully finance nutrition action, and adhere to global commitments.
