Nordic countries unveil bold new dietary guidelines

Recently, the Nordic Council of Ministers proudly unveiled the latest edition of the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations (NNR) – a groundbreaking guideline that champions a harmonious balance between individual health and planetary welfare.

In its most extensive revision in a 40-year legacy, the NNR 2023, a result of four years of collaborative research across the Nordic and international communities, underscores the imperative of adopting predominantly plant-based diets. These recommendations echo the contemporary global emphasis on sustainability, health, and holistic wellbeing.

Rune Blomhoff, Project Leader for the NNR 2023 and esteemed professor at the University of Oslo, articulated the broader vision: "Our aim is to not only pave the way for healthier individuals but also to foster a more sustainable environment. A diet rich in plant-based foods achieves both."

The NNR 2023 prescribes:

• •    Elevated intake of plant-based foods, with a spotlight on vegetables, fruits, berries, legumes, and whole grains.
• •    Balanced consumption of sustainably sourced fish and nuts.
• •    Modest inclusion of low-fat dairy and limited quantities of red and white meats.
• •    A call for the reduction of processed foods high in fats, sugars, and salt, as well as a restricted alcohol intake.

The World Health Organization’s Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, lauded this edition, recognizing its transformative potential in aligning individual and planetary health goals.

The Nordic Nutrition Recommendations are not just guidelines; they influence a diverse range of sectors, from national policies to meals in public institutions. With this 2023 edition, the Nordic nations reiterate their commitment to sustainable futures and beckon the global community to join them in this dietary revolution.

Read the full report

Norden.org