FOOD WASTE

What is food waste?

Food waste is the reduction in quantity or quality of food resulting from the actions and decisions of food suppliers in the supply chain, such as farmers, processors, distributors, retailers and consumers. This waste can be caused by various factors such as poor harvesting, poor storage, poor transportation, and poor consumption of food at the household level.

Food waste has significant economic, social and environmental impacts, including affecting farmers' economies, increasing food prices for consumers, and increasing greenhouse gas emissions (Co 2 and So 2 ). In addition, food waste is also a source of poor nutrition, thus contributing to malnutrition in the community.

 

Food waste is a big challenge in Tanzania, where a large percentage of the people depend on agriculture for their livelihood. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the World (FAO), Tanzania loses approximately 30% of its total food production every year due to poor storage of food after harvesting, shortage of warehouses and misuse at the household level.

2 TIPS TO PREVENT FOOD WASTE

 A) At the Household (Family) level

1. Cook food that meets the needs of consumers and also download small meals that suit your needs at that time.
2. Don't unload a plate so full that you can't finish it.
3. Take a little more if you need more. If you are full with the amount you have taken, it is worth it because you have used the food well.
4. Store food properly: Learn how to store different types of food properly to prevent spoilage. For example, store fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator, and keep dry goods like rice and ugali flour in covered containers. 
5. If you go to the market to buy food needs, prepare a list of things to buy and consider to avoid buying impulsively.      

B) At the community level

• Encouraging the use of various methods that support food storage to prevent waste.
• Educating community members about the importance of reducing food waste, and providing information on how to properly store and prepare food.
• Using food waste in the production of other products.

 

 

RESPONSIBILITY IS FOR BOTH OF US, TAKE ACTION NOW!!!

 

Presented by: 

EMMANUEL INKYA 

AfyaBora Nutrition Organization