Science and Sustainable Food Systems in Southeast Asia- Challenges and Ways Forward

Southeast Asia is home to more than 600 million people with diverse cultures, diets and stages of economic development. Science helps determine optimum diets (including indigenous foods), sustainable agricultural productivity and paths to reduced inputs and environmental impact. Innovation is important for progress, which includes novel proteins, food engineering, drones and digitalization, as well as new plant breeding technologies and improved sensors for health and pathogens. Education on utilizing these technologies will be essential for stakeholders from food producers to consumers. This event presented some of the challenges and opportunities and hosted a panel discussion on steps for progress.