The Member States of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), on the occasion of the 38th ASEAN Summit held on 26 October 2021;

NOTE WITH CONCERN THAT:

1. The nutritional patterns among ASEAN Member States have shifted because of the increase in economic development and urbanization which has led to increased food and beverage production, resulting in changes to dietary consumption;
2. The shift in dietary patterns in ASEAN Member States have given way to varied diets containing more animal proteins including salted fishes, processed and packaged foods containing substantial amounts of added sodium, sugars, and fat as well as less vegetables and fruits consumption;
3. This nutritional transition resulting in unhealthy dietary patterns have increased the risk for the development of non-communicable diseases and obesity. It has significant consequences for regional food and nutrition policies and population health.

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