Food waste: The paradox that continues to undermine food and nutrition security worldwide

Abstract

Sufficient food is being produced worldwide to feed the global population. However, the prevalence of food and nutrition insecurity continues to rise significantly, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) (Beyene, 2023). Even a cursory glance at the statistics for the past 5 years shows that various phenomena and events severely impacted the efforts to reduce widespread hunger and food insecurity. The COVID-19 outbreak was an occurrence unlike any other experienced by humanity before, as it enforced unprecedented control measures in the form of lockdowns, domestic and international trade restrictions, closure of ports and airports, physical distancing, and suspension of production activities, all contributing to the severe food supply chain disruptions.

Keywords Food & Nutrition, Food waste, Covid 19, Physical Distancing