Abstract:

A Low-Carbon Economy is an economy that has a minimal output of greenhouse gas emissions, with the purpose to develop the more advanced zero-carbon society. China is one of the biggest countries in the world in food production and consumption. Therefore the development of a low carbon food system in China can significantly enhance the national low carbon economy. In the paper, the concept of a low carbon food system from farm to fork is proposed. Low carbon factors in each process of the food system including production, processing, packaging, consumption and disposal of food and food-related wastes are analysed，and main methods and techniques to lower the carbon footprint in these processes are discussed. Finally measures that should be taken by consumers, manufacturers and governments in order to develop the low carbon food system are presented.

Key words: low carbon, food system, economy development