Nineteen million tons of food is wasted in Pakistan every year, experts say
Pakistan faces a staggering food waste crisis, with experts estimating that nineteen million tons of food is wasted annually. This wastage occurs alongside a significant malnutrition issue affecting over eighteen percent of the population. The contradiction between waste and hunger highlights urgent challenges in food security and sustainability in the country.
The Food Waste Crisis
According to recent studies, each Pakistani wastes an average of 74 kilograms of food per year. This massive loss not only contributes to hunger but also places a strain on environmental resources. Food waste leads to increased greenhouse gas emissions and adds pressure to already overburdened landfills.
Malnutrition in Pakistan
The alarming statistics on food waste are further compounded by malnutrition, which affects millions of individuals across the nation. With eighteen and a half percent of the population suffering from nutritional deficiencies, the need for effective solutions is clear.
Event Overview
In recognition of these pressing issues, an event was held in Islamabad to mark World Food Day. The gathering was organized in collaboration with the National Food Security and Research department and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN). It aimed to foster discussions on food security and the impacts of climate change on agriculture.
Key Speakers and Insights
Prominent speakers, including Dr. Ghulam Sadiq Afridi from Pakistan Agriculture Research, stressed the importance of policy dialogue to address food shortages. Faiz Rasool, policy head at GAIN, emphasized that the organization's focus extends beyond food security to encompass climate change as well.
Participants voiced the necessity of engaging policymakers to legislate critical issues related to food policy and safety, reinforcing the call for comprehensive strategies to tackle these challenges.
The Role of Organizations
The event featured collaboration from various organizations, including the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), the National Alliance for Safe Food (NASF), and the Scaling Up Nutrition Movement (SUN). These partnerships aim to implement holistic, policy-driven solutions to make nutritious food accessible and sustainable for all.
Farah Naz, GAIN Pakistan Country Director, highlighted the importance of increasing food access for vulnerable communities, advocating for bio-fortified crops, and supporting farmers with climate-smart agricultural practices. GAIN's initiatives, such as the Initiative on Climate Action and Nutrition (I-CAN), are crucial for ensuring food security in the face of climate challenges.
Conclusion
The food waste crisis and the malnutrition epidemic in Pakistan present a critical challenge that requires immediate action. Through collaborative efforts, policy advocacy, and innovative agricultural practices, stakeholders can work towards a future where nutritious food is accessible to all, thereby reducing waste and improving public health.
FAQs
By raising awareness and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, Pakistan can make significant strides toward reducing food waste and improving nutrition for all its citizens.
