Source: Think Global Health
As the EU debates reforms to its Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), set to expire in 2027, disruptions in the agrifood sector are raising serious concerns about food security. Farmers across Europe have protested proposed subsidy cuts, while animal diseases already cause nearly 20% of global livestock production losses annually. Recent outbreaks, such as foot-and-mouth disease in Germany and sheep and goat pox in Greece, have cost billions of euros, reduced meat and dairy output, driven up food prices, and wasted land, water, and feed.
Prioritizing animal health is one of the most cost-effective ways to stabilize agricultural markets, protect food security, and meet climate goals. Preventive measures, vaccination, Veterinary innovation, and better disease surveillance can reduce losses, emissions, and antibiotic use while improving productivity and trade competitiveness. Evidence from Germany, the UK, and France shows strong economic and environmental returns on investment. Embedding animal health funding into CAP reforms and EU sustainability policies could strengthen resilience across Europe’s food system.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.thinkglobalhealth.org/article/concerns-over-animal-health-and-eu-food-security