The challenge of supplying healthy diets to 9 billion people in 2050 will in part be met through increase in food production. However, reducing food losses throughout the supply chain from production to consumption and sustainable enhancements in preservation, nutrient content, safety and shelf life of foods, enabled by food processing will also be essential. Food processing is an important link between production and consumption within the food value chain. Without increased attention to the role of food processing for a maintainable food supply, we are unlikely to succeed in addressing the mounting challenges in delivering sustainable diets for all people.