In a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between food, nutrition, and the fundamental right to health, Special Rapporteur Tlaleng Mofokeng, who specializes in the right to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, sheds light on critical issues. Her analysis delves into the accessibility of food and nutrition, their impact on clinical and health outcomes, and the underlying power imbalances and policy frameworks that shape this landscape.
Mofokeng’s examination, rooted in the principles of intersectionality, anti-coloniality, and anti-racism, draws upon existing international human rights laws and standards. It meticulously scrutinizes the far-reaching consequences of limited access to safe and nutritious food, which affect growth, development, and the overall quality of life across all stages of human existence. Moreover, her investigation identifies the alarming correlation between the increased consumption of unhealthy foods and beverages and the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.
Special Rapporteur Mofokeng does not stop at unveiling the problems; she also highlights positive practices from different corners of the globe. Her aim is to promote a holistic approach that encapsulates the triad of food security, nutrition, and the right to health. By emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach, she encourages a concerted effort to tackle the complex web of issues that govern our access to essential sustenance and its profound implications for our well-being.
