ARS | Publication request: FARMING FOR HEALTH: THE FUTURE OF AGRICULTURE

Submitted to: Southern Plant Nutrient Management Conference
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: August 1, 2004
Publication Date: October 6, 2004
Citation: Welch, R.M. 2004. Farming for health: the future of agriculture. In: Crozier,C., editor. Southern Plant Nutrient Management Conference Proceedings. October 5-6, 2004, Olive Branch, MS. p.35-41.

Technical Abstract: Improving human health is a key component of the future of agriculture. Food systems need to change in ways that will deliver enough affordable, health-enhancing and accessible diets for everyone in sustainable ways if we are to find sustainable solutions to malnutrition and diet-related chronic diseases globally. Domestically, consumer issues will dominate the profitability of farming enterprises in the future. Fighting chronic diseases will also be an important component of agricultural goals in the world, and much more research directed at reducing these illnesses through agricultural practices and holistic thinking will be required. Farming for health is the future of agriculture.