Hunger and food insecurity measure different things
FAO’s 2026 report estimates that 645 million people faced hunger in 2025. Its broader measure of moderate or severe food insecurity estimates 2.1 billion people.
These groups use different definitions and may overlap. Do not add the figures to calculate a total affected population.
Use the evidence
Compare your reasoning with guidance
The indicators are not mutually exclusive population groups. Hunger measures insufficient dietary energy; food insecurity covers broader constraints on access. People can be included in both measures.