Food waste

Food waste refers to food that is discarded, lost, or uneaten at various stages of production, distribution, and consumption. It can occur on farms, in transportation, during processing, in stores, and in households. Causes include overproduction, improper storage, and consumers purchasing more than they need. Food waste contributes to environmental issues, as decomposing food in landfills releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Additionally, it represents a waste of the resources used in food production, such as water, energy, and labor. Reducing food waste can help address food insecurity and mitigate climate change. Solutions include better planning, improved food storage, education on portion sizes, and donation of surplus food to those in need. Effective policies and consumer behavior changes are key to tackling this global issue.