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ISLAMABAD: Pakistan, known for its poverty and dependence on relief aid as per world headlines, has been revealed to be wasting a shocking amount of food every year. According to a report by the Ministry of National Food Security & Research, Pakistan yearly wastes food worth $4 billion, which is equivalent to 26% of its food production. The country wastes a staggering 19.6 million tonnes of food each year, despite efforts to ensure food security.
Earlier reports, surfaced online in 2018, had suggested that around 40% of food in Pakistan is wasted, including food loss during the supply chain, and annual food wastage in Pakistan is estimated to be around 36 million tons.
The report by Ministry of National Food Security & Research highlighted that most of the food items are wasted because they do not meet the criteria of appearance, size, and color. These food items are excluded from the supply line and end up being wasted for various reasons. Additionally, the report also revealed that the majority of food items stored in kitchens are wasted yearly after the expiry date.
It is pertinent to mention here that despite being an agricultural country, Pakistan is facing a shortage of food items, especially after the recent floods and heavy rain. The report’s findings have raised concerns about the need for more effective measures to reduce food waste in Pakistan. With the country’s increasing population and limited resources, food waste is a problem that cannot be ignored.