Role of Dietitians in Ending Food Waste

In today's world, food waste has become a serious issue globally. The recent report by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) revealed that 1.05 billion tons of food are wasted worldwide. This figure is particularly alarming at a time when a significant portion of the world's population is grappling with hunger. According to the report, one-fifth of the produced food ends up in the trash, indicating that food waste largely occurs in households. According to data from the FAO, the rate of food lost in the supply chain from harvest to point of sale reaches 13%. This is not only an environmental problem but also has significant consequences for nutrition, economy, and social balance within communities. The reduction of food waste and raising awareness among the public about this issue is achieved through the contributions of various professionals. In this process, dietitians play a critical role.

Dietitians guide individuals towards adopting sustainable and waste-free eating habits through nutrition education and counseling. By providing practical advice on proper food storage, utilization, and cooking techniques, they assist people in reducing food waste. Additionally, they offer guidance in creating meal plans and preparing shopping lists, encouraging conscious shopping practices and preventing unnecessary food purchases. Dietitians also aid individuals in preparing delicious and nutritious meals using leftover ingredients, enabling them to repurpose food instead of discarding it and thereby reducing food waste. Furthermore, they educate the public about the impacts of food waste and methods for its reduction through community events and campaigns. Lastly, dietitians collaborate with the food industry and government authorities to contribute to the development of policies aimed at reducing food waste. In conclusion, dietitians serve as a crucial link in promoting sustainable eating habits and raising awareness about food waste reduction within communities.



Research Assistant Başak CAN
Department of Nutrition and Dietetics