What does food security refer to?

Food security encompasses the ability of individuals and communities to access sufficient, safe, nutritious, and affordable food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active, healthy lifestyle. This concept goes beyond mere availability of food; it emphasizes not just the quantity but also the quality and nutritional value of food, as well as the economic aspects that allow people to secure their food sources.

This dimension includes several factors such as income levels, food prices, access to food in local markets, and the social safety net that supports vulnerable populations. When people are food secure, they can confidently meet their nutritional needs without anxiety about food scarcity or hunger.

The other options touch on relevant aspects of food systems, but they do not capture the comprehensive definition of food security. Maintaining food freshness, transforming raw materials, and sustainable production all play a role in the overall food system, but they do not directly address the critical issue of access to and availability of nutritious food for individuals and families.