Food Waste Index Report 2024

Food Waste Index Report 2024

News: The Food Waste Index Report 2024, published by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), sheds light on the global issue of food waste.

Key Findings:
Magnitude of Food Waste
 Approximately 19% of all food produced worldwide in 2022 was wasted, amounting to around 1.05 billion metric tons.
 Each person, on average, wasted 79 kg of food annually in households globally, compared to 55 kg per capita per year in India

Expanded Data Points
 The report incorporates vastly expanded data points from around the world, providing significantly more robust global and national estimates.

Enhanced measurement guidance
 The report expands on the SDG 12.3 food waste measurement methodology introduced in the 2021 report.
 It offers enhanced guidance on measurement across retail, food service, and household sectors.

Other key Findings:
 Out of the total food wasted in 2022, 60% happened at the household level, 
with food services responsible for 28%, and retail 12%.
 It was found that food waste is not a “rich country problem”. Difference between average levels of household food waste for high-income, upper-middle, and lower-middle-income countries, was just 7 kg per capita.
 Hotter countries appear to generate more food waste per capita in households. It is potentially due to higher consumption of fresh foods with substantial inedible parts and a lack of robust cold chains.

Transition to Solutions
 Unlike previous reports that focused solely on measurement, the 2024 report explores solutions for food waste reduction.
 It examines effective approaches globally, with a spotlight on public-private partnerships

What are some effective strategies to reduce food waste at the household level?
 Meal Planning: Plan your meals for the week and create a shopping list accordingly. This helps you buy only what you need and avoid impulse purchases
 Portion Control: Cook the right amount of food to prevent leftovers from going to waste. Be mindful of portion sizes to minimize excess food.
 Use Leftovers Creatively: Repurpose leftovers into new meals. Get creative!
 Optimal Storage: Learn how to store different foods properly: Keep perishables in the fridge. Use airtight containers to prevent spoilage. Store fruits and vegetables separately to avoid premature ripening.