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The role of aquatic food value chains in food security and nutrition

Exploring the contribution of aquatic food value chains to global food systems transformation

Year of publication 2025

Place of publication Rome, Italy ;

Pages 26 p.

Author Peñarubia, R.O.; Taskov, D.; Park, S.; Toppe, J.;

Publisher FAO ;

Product type Booklet

Synopsis (short abstract) This paper considers the important role of the aquatic food value chain in food security and nutrition. In the context of food security, the fisheries and aquaculture sectors are sources of aquatic foods for human consumption and key means to sustain livelihoods and generate income to purchase foods. While in terms of nutrition, aquatic foods provide macro- and micronutrients for a healthy diet, depending on the species and parts consumed, including omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, iron, zinc, iodine, selenium, and vitamins A, B12 and D. Small-scale fisheries have been evidenced for being particularly important contributors to food security, and small pelagic species, which are often consumed whole, are particularly nutritious. This paper highlights the contribution of small-scale fisheries and small pelagic species to food security and nutrition, as well as the role of women in this. It also focuses on how aquatic foods can more broadly play a central part in food security and nutrition strategies.

Cite this content as:

Peñarubia, R.O., Taskov, D., Park, S. & Toppe, J. 2025. The role of aquatic food value chains in food security and nutrition – Exploringthe contribution of aquatic food value chains to global food systems transformation. Rome, FAO. 

Language English

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