September 29 is the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste, a day to highlight the huge problem of food waste across the globe. It’s a challenge that affects everyone, from farmers to diners, and has serious environmental and social implications.

Why It Matters:

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that about one-third of all food produced is lost or wasted—around 1.3 billion tons every year. That’s a lot of resources down the drain and a big hit to our environment, as decomposing food in landfills releases methane, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.

Impact on Hospitality:

The hospitality industry—restaurants, hotels, and catering services—faces a unique set of challenges. Large amounts of food are prepared daily, and despite best efforts, some of it inevitably goes to waste. Reducing this waste can save money, boost efficiency, and even improve guest satisfaction.

Simple Tips for Reducing Food Waste:

1. Plan Ahead: Use forecasting tools to get a handle on how much food you’ll need. This helps prevent over-purchasing and over-preparation.

2. Portion Control: Offer different portion sizes and let guests decide how much they want to eat. This way, they’re less likely to leave food uneaten.

3. Get Creative with Leftovers: Use leftovers in new dishes or offer them as take-home options. 

4. Train Your Team: Educate your staff on proper food handling and storage. They can also suggest ways to cut down on waste.

5. Track and Adjust: Keep an eye on food waste and adjust your practices based on what you find. This can help you be more efficient and reduce waste over time.

What Can We All Do?

It’s up to all of us—individuals, businesses, and governments—to tackle food waste. Here are a few steps you can take:

• Spread the Word: Help others understand the impact of food waste and share tips on how to reduce it.

• Be Smart About Food Management: Use technology and better planning to minimise waste.

• Support Food Recovery: Donate surplus food to charities or local food banks.

• Choose Sustainable: Opt for products and practices that are kind to the environment.

This International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste is a call to action. By making small changes in our daily lives and working together, we can tackle this issue and build a more sustainable future.