We go live at the European Parliament

PAN International's Wendy Walrabenstein, RD, led an impactful conversation on how nutrition can help prevent major diseases affecting millions across Europe. The focus was on combating cardiovascular disease, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), diabetes, and cancer through healthier diets.

Vibrant assortment of fruits and vegetables symbolising the power of nutrition in preventing chronic disease.

With the European Commission’s upcoming vision on Agriculture and Food and the formation of the European Board on Agriculture and Food, Manuela Ripa (EPP), Laurent Castillo (EPP), Tilly Metz (Greens/EFA), and Biljana Borzan (S&D) joined forces at an event ‘Nutrition as Prevention: How Healthier Diets Can Prevent Cardiovascular Disease, AMR, Diabetes, and Cancer’ that took place in the European Parliament on February 4th.

The food system is a key contributor to the EU’s disease burden and places a heavy strain on national health budgets. Unhealthy diets are a primary factor behind cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer, while the rise of AMR is increasingly tied to dietary trends, with over 60% of antibiotics used in livestock farming. Given the close link between food systems and health, the call was made for greater integration of health voices in agri-food debates.

The event also brought together experts from various health fields to explore how healthier diets can prevent these life-threatening conditions. A broader panel discussion followed addressing Europe's role in reducing unnecessary deaths and diseases through its “One Health” approach.