Arooj Zulfiqar

Food wastage is a serious concern around the world from an economic, environmental, and social perspective and Pakistan is no exception in this regard. Karim Khan, Associate Professor at Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE), told WealthPK that food wastage is a major concern for a developing country like Pakistan. “Despite being an agricultural country, Pakistan is facing a shortage of food items, especially after the recent floods and heavy rain,” he said.

“Millions of people don’t have access to healthy or balanced meals, while well-off individuals waste food on a daily basis,” he pointed out. Karim said food waste in Pakistan can be attributed to several factors, including inadequate storage and transportation facilities, poor infrastructure, lack of cold chain systems, inefficient agricultural practices, and post-harvest losses.

In addition, consumer behaviour, such as excessive purchasing, improper food handling and storage, and preference for aesthetically perfect produce, also contribute to food waste. “In Pakistan, millions of people are experiencing hunger and malnutrition. Food waste exacerbates this issue by diverting resources from those in need. By minimising food waste, it is possible to provide more food for vulnerable populations and reduce hunger,” he said.

According to a report of the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, Pakistan wastes food worth $4 billion (19.6 million tonnes) yearly, which is about 26% of its food production. According to the report, most food items are wasted because they don't meet the criteria of appearance, size, and colour.

The report said that most food items are excluded from the supply line and wasted for various reasons. It said food items stored in kitchens are also wasted after the expiry date. Reducing food waste in Pakistan requires a multi-faceted approach involving government, private sector, and individual efforts. By addressing the causes of food waste and implementing sustainable practices throughout the food supply chain, Pakistan can make significant progress in combating this issue, contributing to food security, economic stability, and environmental sustainability.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan-WealthPk