Élelmezés

Élelmezés is a term used to describe the system and practices involved in providing food to meet the nutritional needs of a population. It encompasses the full chain from production and processing to distribution and consumption, as well as the scientific and policy activities that influence diet and health. In this sense, élelmezés includes agriculture, animal and fish husbandry, food processing, logistics, retail, and the ways individuals prepare and consume meals. It also covers nutrition science, dietary guidelines, and public health efforts aimed at improving diet quality and preventing nutrition-related diseases.

Key aspects of élelmezés include food security, which refers to the availability, access, utilization, and stability of food supplies for all people. It also involves food safety and quality, ensuring that food is free from harmful contaminants and is properly labeled and regulated. Sustainability is increasingly integrated into the concept, addressing environmental impacts, resource use, biodiversity, and food waste reduction within the food system.

Policy and governance play a central role in shaping élelmezés. Instruments include agricultural and trade policies, nutrition education, fortification of staple foods, dietary guidelines, school meal programs, and social protection measures designed to improve affordability and access to nutritious food. Stakeholders range from farmers and processors to policymakers, health professionals, researchers, retailers, and consumers.

In Hungary and the broader European context, élelmezés is tied to regional food policy, public health initiatives, and efforts to ensure safe, equitable, and sustainable food systems that support population health and well-being.