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Introduction
Food security is a cornerstone of EU objectives and is essential for public health, economic stability, and social well-being across member states [1, 2]. Recent data highlights significant food security challenges within the EU, with around 2.0% of Europe's population experiencing severe food insecurity and 8.2% facing moderate or severe food insecurity in 2023 [3]. The COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions, notably the Russia-Ukraine conflict, have exacerbated these crises by driving inflation and disrupting supply chains, making food security a top priority amid the growing pressures of climate change, supply chain vulnerabilities, and demographic shifts [4, 5–6]. Globally, the EU contributes to food security by managing trade, development assistance, and bioenergy impacts to support stability in developing regions [2]. Defining food security as "all people, at all times, have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their food preferences and dietary needs for an active and healthy life" [7], the EU's commitment is further reinforced through the CAP. The latest reforms emphasize sustainability and resilience by promoting innovative agricultural practices and income support. However, challenges persist regarding the equitable distribution of these benefits, particularly for smaller farms that may struggle with regulatory compliance and financial viability [9, 10]. Resilience in food security encompasses a system's ability to absorb shocks, adapt to changing conditions, and transform food systems to ensure sustainability and stability over time [11]. Resilience-oriented food security strategies must prioritize diversification of food supply chains, increased self-sufficiency, and investment in climate-resilient agricultural practices [12]. Moreover, integrating resilience into food security policies involves developing robust governance mechanisms that enhance food system preparedness, foster innovation, and mitigate vulnerabilities [13]. Food security is vital for public health, as it prevents malnutrition and diet-related diseases, including micronutrient deficiencies or "hidden hunger," even in food-secure regions [14, 15]. In the EU, a key element toward this direction is the European Farm to Fork Strategy [16] within the European Green Deal [17], aimed at promoting sustainable food systems through eco-friendly production, reducing food waste, and improving food accessibility and affordability. This approach reflects the EU's commitment to sustainable food policy. However, regulatory harmonization remains challenging, with implementation disparities across Member States affecting its effectiveness [4, 8]. While the EU's integrated food...