153 million people saved from hunger if food waste halved, new report says

A joint report by the OECD and the UN’s food agency has found that cutting global food waste in half could have major environmental and humanitarian benefits, Arab News reported yesterday.

Around a third of all food produced is currently lost or wasted, resulting in unnecessary greenhouse gas emissions and depriving those in need. The report estimates that by 2033, wasted food could exceed the total calories consumed in low-income countries in a year.

Reducing food waste by 50% before 2030 could lower global agricultural emissions by 4% and lift 153 million people out of hunger. This ambitious target would require substantial changes across the food supply chain, from producers to consumers.

The report highlights that fruits, vegetables, and cereals account for the majority of lost and wasted food. Implementing measures to minimize this waste could significantly increase food availability and access, especially for low-income populations.