Al-Ramah: Curbing Food Waste Through Conscious Consumption to Support Sustainability and Preserve Resources

Abu Nasr confirmed that Acting Director General of the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition, Abeer Al-Rumah, stated that reducing food loss and waste represents a shared societal responsibility, requiring enhanced awareness and the consolidation of responsible consumption practices, thereby contributing to resource preservation and supporting the sustainability trajectory for future generations.

Speaking on the occasion of World Food Loss and Waste Awareness Day during a campaign held at The Avenues Mall, which will last for two days, Al-Rumah emphasized that food conservation begins with individual daily behavior. She explained that simple steps, such as purchasing only actual needs, storing food properly, and utilizing leftovers, can make a tangible difference in reducing waste and promoting the optimal use of resources.

She noted that food undergoes a series of stages and processes before reaching the consumer’s table, requiring diverse efforts and resources, making its preservation a responsibility that reflects appreciation for blessings and awareness of the value and importance of sustaining resources. Al-Rumah called on members of society to adopt a culture of conscious consumption and make it a way of life, alongside participating in spreading awareness about the importance of reducing food waste. She stressed that change begins with simple practices whose cumulative effects contribute to building a more aware and responsible society regarding food and resources.

Al-Rumah clarified that the Authority is keen on intensifying awareness campaigns and media events, as well as coordinating efforts and cooperating with relevant authorities to adopt correct practices in collaboration with the Food Authority to achieve sustainability goals. She concluded by emphasizing that “preserving food is preserving blessings and being aware of the nation’s resources,” stressing the importance of united societal efforts to consolidate the culture of reducing waste and realizing the concept of sustainability in daily life.

For her part, Dala Al-Nibari, Head of the Government Food Security Policies Department at the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition, stated that reducing food waste is a shared responsibility that begins within the family. She stressed the importance of enhancing community awareness and adopting dietary habits and behaviors that contribute to reducing waste and preserving food resources.

Al-Nibari explained that the objectives of the awareness campaign include raising community awareness of the necessity to reduce food waste and encouraging families to follow simple and effective practices that contribute to minimizing food loss. She noted that families can reduce waste by purchasing only actual needs, avoiding unnecessary food purchases, and determining appropriate quantities before shopping.

She added that important steps also include preparing food quantities that match the number of family members and paying attention to proper storage methods, which help preserve food quality and safety and reduce the likelihood of spoilage and disposal. Al-Nibari affirmed that reducing food waste contributes to resource preservation, especially since the State of Kuwait relies on importing a large portion of its food needs. She explained that wasting any amount of food means wasting the resources used in its production, transportation, and provision, which necessitates strengthening the culture of food conservation and responsible consumption.

She highlighted the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition’s commitment to enhancing awareness among various segments of society, particularly new generations, by organizing workshops and awareness programs in schools. These initiatives aim to inform students about the importance of reducing food waste and encourage them to adopt correct practices that contribute to preserving food and resources and reinforcing the concept of sustainability.