A revolution is taking place in global agriculture that has profound implications for human health, livelihoods and the environment. Population growth, urbanisation and income growth in developing countries are fueling a massive increase in demand for food of animal origin. These changes in the diets of billions of people could significantly improve the well-being of many rural poor. Governments and industry must prepare for this continuing revolution with long-run policies and investments that will satisfy consumer demand, improve nutrition, direct income growth opportunities to those who need them most and alleviate environmental and public health stress.