The following is a brief introduction to the topic:
Today, supermarket shelves are overflowing, portions in restaurants are usually oversized, and there is an endless variety of food. In this world of abundance, more than 820 million people go to bed every night hungry. It is a stark contradiction: millions of people suffer from malnutrition and hunger, yet nearly a third of the food produced worldwide is wasted. This article examines the troubling paradox of food waste and widespread hunger, as well as what can be done to correct it.
Food Waste: A Problem of Concern
Every stage of the supply chain is affected by food waste.
- Overproduction of crops or non-conforming crops on farms.
- during transport and storage due to spoilage or poor infrastructure
- Overstocking in markets and restaurants
- in homes due to poor planning or overbuying.
Every year, about 1.3 billion tons (or enough food to feed billions) of people are wasted.
Human and Environmental Cost
Wasting food has devastating consequences:
- Hunger, inequality and food: Some places throw away food while others are deprived of even the necessities. Hunger is not due to a shortage of food but due to inequalities in access and distribution.
- Damage to the environment: The production and transportation of food uses water, energy and land. These resources are wasted when food is thrown away. Food that is rotting in landfills emits methane, a powerful greenhouse gas.
- Economic Loss: Food waste globally costs the world almost $1 trillion per year. This is money that families, businesses and governments lose.
Why Does This Happen?
Food waste can be reduced by changing habits and systems.
- “Supermarkets reject ugly” fruits & vegetables
- Buying in excess and disposing of leftovers
- Misunderstanding “best before” dates
- The public does not understand food waste
What can be done?
Governments, Businesses, and Individuals have all a part to play.
Policy Solutions
- Food donation laws and landfill waste reduction laws
- Support for food banks, redistribution and distribution programs
- Investment in cold storage, transport and logistics in low-income countries
Industry Actions
- Retailers can offer “imperfect” products at reduced prices
- Restaurants can serve smaller portions or donate leftovers
- Food rescue groups and farms can work together
Each Step
- Plan your meals and shopping with intention
- Food should be stored properly to prevent spoilage
- Use leftovers creatively
- Composting organic waste
- Support charities and businesses that reduce waste and hunger
The conclusion of the article is:
Food is thrown away daily in massive quantities despite the fact that there are enough resources to feed everyone. It’s not just about food. This is a moral, environmental and human issue.
We need to shift from a mindset of excess to one of responsibility. In a world where there is plenty, nobody should be hungry.
