The Global Disaster of Food Waste: A Call for Action
Globalization has ushered in significant changes worldwide, impacting various aspects of life, including food habits and consumption patterns. In Kerala, traditional culinary delights are gradually giving way to fast food favorites like burgers and pizzas, reflecting a broader shift in eating habits. While technological advancements have made ordering food convenient, the alarming Food Waste Index report by the United Nations sheds light on the dire consequences of excessive food consumption and wastage. Shockingly, the report reveals that a staggering 100 million tons of food are discarded annually, exacerbating global hunger and poverty issues. Despite the availability of surplus food, nearly 80 crore people struggle to access adequate nutrition, underscoring the urgency of addressing food waste on a global scale.
Households emerge as the primary contributors to food waste, accounting for 60 percent of the total discarded food, followed by restaurants, canteens, and hotels at 28 percent. This wanton squandering not only results in the loss of valuable resources but also incurs significant economic costs, amounting to a staggering 83 lakh crore rupees annually. In light of this crisis, the Dubai model of food banks presents a viable solution worth emulating. By repurposing expired food from supermarkets and encouraging community contributions, food banks offer a lifeline to those in need while promoting sustainable consumption practices. As the world grapples with the urgent need to address food insecurity, it is imperative for Kerala and other regions to explore innovative solutions to mitigate the global disaster of food waste.
