The primary objective (PO) of LimEATS is to better understand the interconnections between unhealthy diets, social inequality and environmental sustainability in urban Norway, and to use this knowledge to develop strategies for creating ecologically safe, healthy and socially just urban food systems. Focusing on Trondheim and Oslo, the project brings together environmental, health, socioeconomic, cultural and spatial perspectives to understand current urban food-system challenges and identify realistic pathways for transformation.

SO1 – Determine the extent to which Norwegian urban food systems are transgressing planetary boundaries, with a focus on unhealthy and heavily processed foods.
We will assess the environmental and nutrition-related health impacts of current food consumption and food and feed trade, including impacts occurring outside Norway through imported food and feed. We will investigate the contribution of ultra-processed foods and compare current consumption with alternative sustainable and healthy diets to identify opportunities for reducing environmental impacts while improving health.

SO2 – Understand the extent and reasons why urban food systems struggle with inequality issues related to healthy and sustainable foods.
We will investigate the socioeconomic, cultural and socio-spatial factors shaping food availability, accessibility and affordability in Trondheim and Oslo. Particular attention will be given to differences between socioeconomic groups, vulnerable and minority populations, access to healthy and sustainable foods and green spaces, and opportunities for alternative and local food provisioning. This will establish the social foundation required for a safe and just urban food system.

SO3 – Develop policy solutions to ensure ecologically safe and socially just urban food systems.
Building on the environmental boundaries identified in SO1 and the social foundation investigated in SO2, we will co-create solutions with policymakers, municipalities, businesses, civil society organisations and local communities. Through interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary collaboration, the project will develop and assess transformative interventions, explore opportunities for transferring and scaling promising initiatives, and formulate policy strategies for healthier, more sustainable and equitable urban food systems.