Harnessing aquaculture for healthy diets

Fish can represent a key component of healthy diets, given the protein, omega-3 fatty acid, and micronutrient profile it provides, and the diversity of fish available. It is also one of the most traded food commodities by monetary value, at US$165 billion in 2018, and in many ways exemplifies the interconnectedness of today's global food system. There is considerable potential for many low- and middle-income countries to capitalise on the opportunities and benefits presented by aquaculture. When managed sustainably, aquaculture can contribute to resilient food systems, and enhance the quality of diets and the health of populations through improved nutrition, while providing a major source of employment and export earnings.

Food security and nutrition issues need to be better integrated into policy decisions relating to aquaculture.

Fish and related products produced from aquaculture should be fully incorporated into agriculture and trade policies, updated national food-based dietary guidelines, and considered within nutrition and health policies and strategies.

Governments, their development partners, and private sector entities all have a role to play. The goals should be to increase human capital, skills development, and wider adoption of existing feed-related technologies to countries in the global South.

This brief sets out the contribution that aquaculture can make to healthy diets and resilient food systems. It provides guidance for policymakers as they consider decisions related to the expansion of aquaculture, balancing issues related to diets and food security, economic growth and employment, and the environment.