Mudzielwana, Rudzani Vhuyelwani Angel2026-03-112026-03-112025-08-14Mudzielwana, R.V.A. (2025) Climate-smart food systems: integrating adaptation and mitigation strategies for sustainable agriculture in South Africa. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems 9: 1580516: 1-16. doi: 10.3389/fsufs.2025.1580516.2571-581X (online)10.3389/fsufs.2025.1580516http://hdl.handle.net/2263/108874AIM : Climate change presents significant challenges to food security, particularly in vulnerable regions like South Africa. This review examines climate-smart food systems (CSFS) as an integrated approach to enhancing agricultural resilience, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, and ensuring sustainable food production. INTRODUCTION : The agricultural sector must simultaneously adapt to shifting climatic conditions and reduce its environmental impact. METHODS : This study synthesizes current literature on adaptation strategies, such as drought-resistant crops, precision agriculture, and agroecological practices, alongside mitigation efforts, including carbon sequestration, emissions reductions in livestock, and circular food systems. RESULTS : Findings highlight key barriers to CSFS implementation, including financial constraints, inadequate technical support, and fragmented policies. Policy interventions, multi-stakeholder collaborations, and emerging technologies are crucial in overcoming these challenges. DISCUSSION : Strengthening governance, financial mechanisms, and knowledge-sharing platforms is essential for the widespread adoption of climate-smart strategies. CONCLUSION : By aligning adaptation, mitigation, and policy efforts, South Africa can foster a resilient agricultural sector that supports food security and sustainable development in the face of climate change.en© 2025 Mudzielwana. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY).Climate-smart food systems (CSFS)Climate-resilient agricultureAdaptation strategiesMitigation policiesSustainable food productionSouth Africa (SA)Article