Simple Solutions to Tackle South Africa’s Food Waste Crisis

As we approach the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (IDAFLW) on 29 September, the pressing issue of food loss and waste in South Africa demands attention. Each year, over 10 million tonnes of food are discarded, severely impacting the country’s food security. Of the 31 million tonnes of food produced annually, a third is never eaten—further exacerbating South Africa’s ongoing food insecurity and climate crisis.

In 2023, the cost-of-living crisis, skyrocketing food prices, high unemployment rates, and deepening inequality have left 15% of the population—roughly 9.34 million people—facing hunger.

“We produce enough food in South Africa to feed everyone,” says Andy Du Plessis, Managing Director of FoodForward SA (FFSA). “Yet, a large portion of our food never reaches the consumer because of various supply chain dynamics across the food production and distribution system.”

To further combat food waste at the household level and reduce the amount of food ending up in landfills, Du Plessis offers some simple, effective tips:

1. Plan your weekly meals: Carefully plan meals and purchase only what you need to avoid overbuying and wasting food.
2. Know the difference between “best before” and “use by” dates: Understanding these labels helps reduce unnecessary disposal of food that is still safe to eat.
3. Store food properly: Keep perishable items in the right conditions to extend their shelf life.
4. Donate excess food: Share surplus produce with neighbours, local food banks, or soup kitchens, ensuring it reaches those who need it most.
5. Compost organic waste: Instead of discarding fruit and vegetable peels, repurpose them into compost for gardens.

Food systems globally account for an estimated 60% of global methane emissions, and food loss and waste related emissions account for 20% of this, which is driving climate change.

The fight against food loss and waste can make a real difference in reducing food insecurity and malnutrition.

This International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste, FFSA encourages individuals and those within the food system to take the necessary actions toward minimising food waste and maximizing impact.