Celebrated annually on April 16, World Food Waste Awareness Day draws attention to the social, environmental, and economic dimensions of food waste and aims to raise public awareness on this critical issue. It plays a significant role in highlighting the inconsistencies, inefficiencies, and lack of awareness that lead to waste across the entire food supply chain — from production to consumption.
Today’s global food production systems increasingly deviate from the principles of sustainability due to rapid resource depletion and rising greenhouse gas emissions. This results not only in economic losses but also in environmental degradation and threats to food security. Given that food waste impacts every stage of the food system, both producers and consumers must take active measures to reduce it.
Adopting sustainable dietary practices — such as planned shopping, portion control, and using leftovers — can help reduce waste at the individual level. However, long-term and impactful solutions require strong educational initiatives and institutional collaboration. The field of Nutrition and Dietetics plays a central role in improving food literacy and embedding waste-reducing behaviors in daily life. With its interdisciplinary foundation, the discipline contributes significantly to both environmental and health-based sustainability policies. Awareness-raising campaigns and practical educational strategies should be designed to not only inform but also transform behaviors.
Communication strategies and awareness activities are also critical tools in enhancing public sensitivity to food waste. Studies in Türkiye show that consumer behaviors — especially in metropolitan areas — are major contributors to food waste. Vegetables, fruits, and bread are the most commonly wasted food groups, primarily due to a lack of planning, knowledge of expiry dates, and proper storage techniques.
University-based studies also indicate that although awareness is increasing among students and young adults, it does not always translate into behavioral change. In this regard, local governments, educational institutions, and the private sector must work together to promote waste prevention through digital tools, composting systems, and food donation networks.
In conclusion, World Food Waste Awareness Day serves as a vital opportunity to reflect on consumption habits, reassess institutional practices, and promote the transition to sustainable food systems. Through integrated educational and technological interventions, it is possible to increase societal awareness and help prevent environmental, economic, and social losses.
