Advancing Applications of System Dynamics in Critical Food Systems Research Comment on "Using System Dynamics to Understand Transnational Corporate Power in Diet-Related Non-communicable Disease Prevention Policy-Making: A Case Study of South Africa".

Abstract

This commentary commends Milsom et al for their critical and rigorous application of qualitative system dynamics to unpack corporate power in food policy-making. Their use of Critical Realism, best practice qualitative methods, and feedback loops exemplifies the maturation of system dynamics applications in public health research. We reflect on how their work aligns with broader debates about power and social theory in system dynamics and how it offers a blueprint for trustworthiness and reflexivity in qualitative modelling. Drawing on our team's work with Aboriginal communities in Australia, we highlight the value of culturally grounded, participatory modelling in amplifying the voices of communities experiencing historical and ongoing oppression. We support the authors' call to advance toward simulation modelling and stress the importance of engaging with both system dynamics and community-based knowledge to realise the transformative potential of systems-informed, community-led research in reshaping food policy and practice.