Complex network analysis and health implications of nutrient trade

Abstract

Food trade plays a key role in global nutrition, but the essential nutrients within this trade are understudied. We investigated the global nutrient trade network from 1986 to 2020, examining the relationship with income level and health outcomes. Bilateral nutrient trade data for 48 nutrients and 254 countries/economies was produced, made accessible through an interactive online application. Nutrients of interest in the context of food security and health (protein, calcium, iron, and vitamins A and B12) were examined using network analysis, animated graphs, and logistic regression to demonstrate the inequitable nature of nutrient trade, but its positive role in current nutrition-related disease. Food trade policy should be set with micronutrient content and deficiency in mind to address food security, nutrition, and health.