Current food systems cause significant negative impact both environmentally and socially. In response, food hubs have emerged as a potential solution towards a more sustainable food system. By directly linking producers to consumers, food hubs have the potential to create localized food systems, which can enhance both environmental and social sustainability. However, the concept of food hubs remains poorly defined and its exact contributions to social sustainability in specific are not yet fully understood.

Therefore, this research addresses the question “What would an ideal socially sustainable food hub in Amsterdam look like, based on literature and (best practices of) existing food hubs in the Netherlands?”. Using a combination of literature review, interviews and a co-creation session, this study explores the current contribution of food hubs to social sustainability and envisions an ideal socially sustainable food hub in the H-buurt, Amsterdam Southeast.

Findings reveal that food hubs differ in their social sustainability impact depending on their food hub type and position within the food chain. Most significant impact is made at the interplay of producer and consumer. In the context of the H-buurt, residents envision a food hub that incorporates both local food production with the redistribution of surplus food. The hub is led by the community and there is a strong emphasis on fostering social cohesion. The insights regarding the ideal food hub can be used in the further development of a food hub in the H-buurt.

Our current food practices cause numerous environmental, social, cultural, and economic externalities. Yet while the challenges arise in these seemingly different dimensions, the solutions to finding a sustainable diet, might be found in the interplay between them. Striking a balance between components of the food system to ensure a future sustainable diet requires a tangible framework as a starting point. This research developed scenarios using expert interviews to draft future food acquisition practices for the city of Amsterdam in 2050. By employing and expanding upon the DESTEP methodology, a glimpse of the future lifestyle practices, system of provision, and food acquisition arose. Seven trends were drafted, which are expected to affect future food acquisition practices significantly. 1) A dichotomy in society between those well-off and those badly-off, 2) a potential increase in plant-based food consumption, 3) a dichotomy in society regarding food orientation, with on the one hand those seeking convenience while a growing number of people look the context behind the food they eat, 4) robotization, 5) water and nutrient scarcity, 6) an increased awareness by governments as to what people eat, and lastly, 7) the ongoing battle for space within the city. The different scenarios point out that the government's role can significantly affect how the future pans out.