UNICEF has raised the alarm that more than one in four children under the age of five globally are living in severe food poverty.
This translates to over 180 million children at risk of adverse effects on their growth and development.
Severe child food poverty is defined as children consuming two or fewer food groups daily, leading to heightened risks of severe malnutrition, emaciation, and long-term developmental challenges.
Harriet Torlesse, a lead writer of the new UNICEF report, stated, “It is shocking in this day and age where we know what needs to be done.” The report highlights that children need a diverse diet from five of eight main food groups, but many lack access to this variety.
In 100 low- and middle-income countries, 440 million children are affected by food poverty, with 181 million experiencing severe food poverty. The report identifies Somalia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, and Afghanistan as the most affected countries.
UNICEF chief Catherine Russell pointed out the severe consequences of this deprivation, noting that children consuming limited food groups are up to 50% more likely to suffer from malnutrition, which can be fatal.
The report also brings attention to the situation in the Gaza Strip, where military conflicts have exacerbated food poverty, with about nine in 10 children living in severe food poverty.
UNICEF calls for enhanced social services, humanitarian aid, and a reevaluation of the global food processing system to address the crisis. The agency also warns against the aggressive marketing of sugary and ultra-processed foods, which contribute to nutritional deficiencies and obesity.
