‘Think, Eat, Save’ Onethird of world’s food production goes waste

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Imphal, May 28 2013: Even as millions of underfed and hungry people are teeming in different parts of the planet, almost one-third of the world’s food production (1.3 billion tonnes) goes waste every year.

This observation of experts is highly relevant to the theme of this year’s World Environment Day (June 5) which is “Think, Eat, Save” .

If one is talking about food wastage, Manipuri people, particularly those settled in the valley do not lag behind any other community.

The common concept and practice among the Meiteis during feasts or festivals is, “Cook more for it would be embarrassing if there is shortage.

Don’t think about left overs” .

Ironically, there is no such thing as food security in Manipur.

Even though there is no food security in Manipur, agriculture is seemingly the most neglected economic sector in the State, observed ICAR, Lamphel Principal Scientist Irengbam Meghachandra.

Noting that fertile agricultural lands of Manipur valley have been shrinking every year, Meghachandra lamented that there is very little possibility for multiple cropping in a year or a season, primarily due to absence or failure of irrigation facilities.

Horticulture produces too are either wasted or sold with little profit due to absence of marketing and processing facilities.

Again, irrigation and food processing facilities require regular and adequate power supply, Meghachandra said.

Wastage of food is a contributory factor for the drastic climate change across the world.

To mitigate global climate change, it is essential to preserve food in proper manner instead of wasting them.

The importance of preserving food is reflected glaringly in this year’s World Environment Day theme.

Around 88 to 100 metric tonnes of food go waste in Imphal area on daily basis, Meghachandra said citing a survey report.

Saying that 60 per cent of these domestic wastes are kitchen leftovers, the ICAR scientist highlighted the need to create awareness among the public on the importance of preventing food wastage.

via NorthEast Calling - NorthEast India | India's No1 online News Magazine http://necalling.com/think-eat-save-onethird-of-worlds-food-production-goes-waste/