Is Food Waste Consuming Us? The Urgent Need for Change

Food waste is undeniably a global crisis that is not only consuming vast quantities of resources but also exacerbating environmental, economic, and social challenges.

- Ashutosh Jaiswal

Every year, an estimated one-third of all food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted, amounting to approximately 1.3 billion metric tons. This staggering amount of waste has significant implications for sustainability, food security, and the well-being of our planet. The environmental impact of food waste is profound. The resources used in food production, including water, energy, and land, are squandered when food is discarded. Moreover, decomposing food waste in landfills generates methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.

Beyond the environmental consequences, food waste has economic and social implications. The economic cost of food waste is substantial, with losses throughout the entire supply chain. Food waste represents a significant financial burden for producers, retailers, and consumers. Moreover, in a world where nearly 800 million people suffer from hunger, food waste is a glaring paradox. By reducing food waste, we can redirect valuable resources to feed those in need and improve global food security.

The Scope of Food Waste

To fully comprehend the magnitude of the problem, it is crucial to examine the scope of food waste on a global scale. According to the FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India), one-third of all food in India is wasted or gets spoilt before it is eaten. According to the UNEP Food Waste Index Report 2021, household food waste in India is estimated to be around 50 kg per person annually, or 68.76 million tonnes.

The scope of food waste is vast and encompasses various stages of the food supply chain. To fully understand the extent of this issue, let's explore each stage in more detail: