The purpose of this report is two-fold: to analyse how food systems influence people’s dietary patterns and nutritional outcomes; and to highlight effective policies and programmes that have the potential to shape food systems, contribute to improved nutrition and ensure that food is produced, distributed and consumed in a sustainable manner that protects the right to adequate food for all. This report is illustrated by short case studies reflecting the wide variety of practical experiences in different contexts. It also provides a set of action-oriented recommendations addressed to states and other stakeholders in order to inform CFS engagement in advancing nutrition and CFS contribution to the UN Decade of Action on Nutrition (2016–2025).