The Spanish government, led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, has officially presented the National Nutrition Strategy, heralding it as a "necessary and groundbreaking effort" aimed at future-proofing the nation's food systems and enhancing public health. The strategy is rooted in dialogue and aims to provide strategic vision, counter to the immediate concerns often seen in food policy discussions.
Unveiled at La Vega Innova, San Fernando de Henares on February 6, 2025, the strategy outlines key objectives aimed at achieving food security across the country. According to Sánchez, the initiative is part of Spain's commitment to becoming more self-sufficient and securing its food supply from external influences. "Europe's life depends on reinforcing our sovereignty over food production," he stated. The National Nutrition Strategy is expected to address food quality, safety, and innovation from farm to table.
This comprehensive roadmap sets out to create a food system seen as "safe, sustainable, healthy, competitive, and socially just" throughout its entire lifecycle, appealing to all stakeholders involved—from producers to consumers. Sánchez expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Agriculture for their significant efforts along with the contributions from agricultural unions, which advocate for the rights of farmers, fishermen, and livestock keepers.
The strategy revolves around six primary challenges: enhancing food security, promoting sustainability, strengthening rural and coastal communities, encouraging healthy eating, integrating innovation and technology, and empowering consumers. With regard to food security, Sánchez articulated the need for Spain to bolster its capabilities to safeguard against global supply chain issues and tariffs. This echoed sentiments from the Commission of the European Union, emphasizing the need for strategic autonomy against unpredictable international market conditions.
The government’s approach includes diversifying food supply sources, enhancing domestic production capabilities, and bolstering competitiveness. Efforts have already been initiated, such as investments in green fertilizer production facilities and practices, particularly noted at sites like Puertollano and Aragón.
On sustainability, Sánchez underscored the importance of achieving environmentally responsible food systems, citing Spain's position as the second-largest EU state for organic farming and the sixth largest worldwide. With 80% of irrigated agricultural areas adopting efficient water management practices through unprecedented investments totaling €2.4 billion until 2027, the initiative promotes responsible and efficient agricultural practices.
The social dimension of sustainability also figured prominently, with Sánchez advocating for dignified working conditions within the agricultural sector and the urgent need to reduce food waste. The strategy highlights over 900,000 family-owned farming operations as central to it, aiming to reinforce the new Family Agriculture Law currently under development by the government.
The National Nutrition Strategy will also target health promotion by guaranteeing access to healthy food for all and combating poor dietary habits, particularly through campaigns aligned with the National Plan for Obesity Reduction among children. This aligns with broader health initiatives spearheaded by the Spanish government to improve public health outcomes.
Innovation and technology are seen as pivotal for the strategy, as Spain boasts over 2,500 active research and agricultural innovation projects. The nation has developed notable hubs for technological advancement with 20 leading technology centers, 50 universities, and numerous specialized business associations and start-ups.
Finally, consumer empowerment is central to the National Nutrition Strategy. The government is also committed to enhancing reliable information on food labeling to combat prevalent misinformation. Sánchez expressed concern over the pervasive spread of false news online, noting how it jeopardizes informed consumer decisions, with up to 30% of false information circulating around the agricultural sector on social media.
The National Nutrition Strategy is not merely about improving dietary habits; it's part of Spain's broader strategy to secure its food supply chain and sustainability for future generations. The Spanish government's proactive measures reflect the urgent need for innovative solutions and ingrained cultural changes to thrive amid global shifts and challenges.