SOFI 2026: Key Global Trends in Food Security and Nutrition
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The 2026 edition of The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) reports a third consecutive annual decline in global hunger, indicating that progress remains possible even under challenging conditions. According to the latest data, 7.8% of the world’s population experienced hunger in 2025—down from 8.1% in 2024 and 8.6% in 2022. This corresponds to approximately 645 million people, a reduction of 14 million compared to the previous year.
Despite this improvement, the report highlights significant regional disparities. Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean show steady gains, while Africa continues to record the highest number of people affected by hunger in absolute terms. In 2025, around one quarter of the global population faced moderate or severe food insecurity, with rural communities and women disproportionately affected.
SOFI 2026 also provides updated projections for the next five years, incorporating the economic effects of the conflict in the Middle East and rising food prices. Depending on how these factors evolve, between 510 and 520 million people may still face hunger by 2030. The report notes that additional variables—such as extreme weather events expected in 2026 and 2027—are not yet included in these forecasts.
Progress in maternal and child nutrition remains slow. Indicators such as stunting, wasting, low birthweight and exclusive breastfeeding show only marginal improvements, while adult obesity continues to rise and anemia among women worsens. The report also examines the cost of a healthy diet, which increased globally in 2025, with notable differences across regions.
Compiled by five UN agencies, SOFI 2026 presents a comprehensive overview of current trends, combining areas of progress with persistent inequalities. The full report, available in PDF format, allows readers to explore the data in detail and draw their own conclusions, particularly in sections where trends appear complex or contradictory.
