Minimising food wastage-

Food is the most essential requirement for the sustenance of human life. From the earliest cavemen to advanced civilizations, food and agriculture have played an inevitable role in keeping humans alive and healthy. Every year on October 16, the world comes together hand in hand to celebrate World Food Day as a powerful reminder of the critical role that food plays in our lives and to raise global awareness about a sustainable food future, with a focus on achieving zero hunger. The theme for World Food Day 2025 is "Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future."

Bangladesh also observes the day in a befitting manner, including seminars, rallies, discussions, and the publication of special supplements in newspapers. The UN Food Waste Index Report 2024 revealed that each Bangladeshi household wastes an average of 82 kilograms of food annually, which is significantly higher than in many developed countries. In 2021, the figure was 65 kilograms, indicating a rapidly rising trend. However, the country remains food-deficit in items other than cereal grains, and millions of people continue to struggle with hunger and malnutrition.

Food waste is a global tragedy, while millions endure hunger every day. Wasted food decomposes, releasing methane-a powerful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change and pollutes land and water. In Bangladesh, food waste generally occurs due to post-harvest losses from poor storage and transportation management, as well as rising consumer-level waste from urbanization. Despite significant strides in food production, over 211 million tonnes of food (crops, vegetables, fruits) are wasted from production to post-harvest stages.

The issue of food waste has now emerged as a significant public concern, and Bangladesh must take proactive measures to address it. One contributing factor is the rising income of individuals, which fosters overspending and the misapplication of food, ultimately resulting in significant wastage. At the consumer level, public awareness can be fostered to highlight the impact of food waste and promote responsible practices, such as using leftovers wisely in new meals. At the farm level, modern cold chain facilities, enhanced storage management, and an upgraded transportation network must be urgently developed. These initiatives could constitute the core commitment of Bangladesh's World Food Day programme.

Md. Refatul Hossain

Additional director (retd)

Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE)

Faridpur region