Research Series 68: Exploring a food system index for understanding food system transformation processes

This paper explores the prospects for a food system index (FSI) capturing several key components that influence differences in food system performance at the country level.

The theoretical foundations and methodological approach underlying the FSI framework are outlined and its relevance for understanding major food system characteristics is illustrated. The paper focuses on major FSI differences between regions and types of countries, and compares FSI outcomes across different types of food systems and in relation to other indicators of change in the rural and economic structure.

Finally, the potential of the FSI framework for identifying more coherent food system policies is explained and the challenges for further operationalization are acknowledged.