Union Minister of State for Agriculture Shobha Karandlaje has suggested use of technologies of developed and developing nations to address the problem of global food wastage estimated at 3 billion tonnes. She said social organizations need to play a vital role in spreading awareness among various stakeholders and also should practice the methods to minimise food wastage.
The minister was addressing an international workshop in New Delhi on food loss and waste prevention in the South Asian region on Monday. She said South Asia is a major producer and consumer of food and it is both moral responsibility and economic necessity to reduce the food loss and wastage, according to an official statement.
Food wastage is not only a direct loss to the consumers but also has bearings on the environment and supporting economies, she added.
Karandlaji called for identifying the primary reasons of food loss and waste; focus on education and awareness among all the stakeholders; efficient harvest and storage; smart distribution; industry involvement; donation and food banks; innovation in food packaging, etc.