In this session, we will explore how two middle income countries, South Africa and Mexico, have responded to the changing global food system. Speakers will describe the role of global and national food industries in changing the diet and health of people in South Africa and Mexico, with a particular focus on recent rises in non-communicable diet-related diseases. They will also examine some of the ways that governments and civil society organizations have responded to the public health challenges posed by the rise of highly processed foods in South Africa and Mexico.

In the discussion, speakers and participants will explore how changing United States and international views on the global food trade creates threats and opportunities for creating healthier food systems.