Food waste in Indian households: status and potential solutions

Abstract

According to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), India had the highest number of undernourished people in the world in 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the problem of world hunger (WHO 2021). According to the Food Waste Index Report, 2021, by United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and The Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP), 931 million tonnes of food waste was produced in 2019, with households accounting for 61%, food services for 26%, and retail for 13%. The report estimates that Indian households generate 50 kg of food waste per capita per year, resulting in total of 68,760,163 tonnes annually. This study aimed to investigate the reasons for food waste in Indian households and potential solutions to minimize or control food waste using interpretive phenomenological analysis. Reasons for food waste include miscalculations in meal preparation, a lack of appreciation for food, and a weakening of traditional Indian value systems. The study identified two potential solutions for controlling or eliminating food waste: exploring alternative methods of food consumption and enhancing the family culture surrounding food. The study results could potentially guide policymakers and planners in designing policies to address the problem of food waste in Indian households.