The relationship between diet quality and food security is a pivotal aspect of public health nutrition, with profound implications for individual and community well-being. Continued exploration in this area is essential in addressing endemic malnutrition and ensuring nutritional security for all populations. With substantial global challenges such as rising food insecurity and escalating rates of diet-related chronic diseases, advancing our understanding of these interconnected domains provides critical insights for creating effective, sustainable public health strategies.

Recent advances have addressed the complex interactions between food systems, socioeconomic determinants, and health outcomes. Studies have demonstrated that improved dietary diversity correlates strongly with better nutritional adequacy and reduced rates of micronutrient deficiencies. For instance, researchers have established that access to a variety of food groups significantly enhances the micronutrient profile of diets, reducing the risk of prevalent deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals. Furthermore, emerging research has highlighted the impact of household food insecurity as a key determinant of diet quality; families experiencing food insecurity often resort to less nutritious, calorie-dense options, exacerbating issues of malnutrition.

Public health nutrition has made notable strides in identifying and addressing the diverse factors that contribute to food security challenges. In particular, the integration of behavioral and community-based approaches has yielded promising results in improving dietary practices among vulnerable populations. These advances have laid the groundwork for more targeted interventions, which have proven effective in managing the dual burden of malnutrition—both undernutrition and obesity—coexisting in many regions.

Looking ahead, the potential for future advances in this field is vast. Continuous research can provide insights into innovative food systems that promote both diet quality and food security, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The application of technology, such as data analytics and machine learning, may allow us to better understand patterns of food consumption and the socioeconomic factors impacting dietary choices. Additionally, interdisciplinary approaches that bring together specialists in nutrition, agriculture, and public policy will enhance our capacity to devise comprehensive strategies that strengthen food security while promoting healthy dietary practices.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Nutritional adequacy and health outcomes
• Socioeconomic determinants of diet quality
• Household food insecurity assessments
• Impacts of food systems on public health
• Strategies for enhancing dietary diversity
• Policy approaches to food security
• Interventions to combat micronutrient deficiencies
• Innovations in public health nutrition

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.

All manuscripts submitted to this journal, including those submitted to collections and special issues, are assessed in line with our editorial policies and the journal’s peer review process. Reviewers and editors are required to declare competing interests and can be excluded from the peer review process if a competing interest exists.

Anemia, particularly iron deficiency anemia (IDA), remains a global public health challenge that affects millions across all age groups. This Collection seeks to explore dietary approaches aimed at preventing and managing anemia from infancy through adulthood. We invite researchers to investigate various dietary strategies, including the role of iron-rich and fortified foods, micronutrient supplementation, and the impact of nutritional interventions on enhancing dietary iron bioavailability. By understanding the connections between diet and anemia, we can better equip healthcare providers and policymakers with the knowledge necessary to combat this widespread condition.

Addressing anemia is crucial, as it has far-reaching implications for individual health, cognitive development, and overall quality of life. Recent research highlights the importance of not only increasing iron intake but also improving the absorption of iron through food combinations and preparation methods. Furthermore, understanding the role of socio-economic factors in dietary choices can help tailor effective interventions to diverse populations.

Future research in this domain may pave the way for groundbreaking strategies that integrate dietary recommendations with lifestyle interventions, technology, and community engagement to improve the nutritional status of at-risk populations. Additionally, as we gain insights into the genetic and metabolic factors influencing iron metabolism, we may develop personalized dietary guidelines that address individual needs, leading to more effective prevention and management of anemia throughout the life course.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Iron-rich and fortified foods for anemia prevention
• Micronutrient supplementation strategies
• Nutritional interventions targeting dietary iron bioavailability
• Global strategies for anemia prevention across populations

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.

All manuscripts submitted to this journal, including those submitted to collections and special issues, are assessed in line with our editorial policies and the journal’s peer review process. Reviewers and editors are required to declare competing interests and can be excluded from the peer review process if a competing interest exists.