World Food Day

World Food Day History

World Food Day is an annual observance to raise awareness about food-related issues like hunger, malnutrition, and food waste. This global initiative underlines the importance of achieving the United Nations' sustainable development goal of zero hunger by 2030. Throughout the day, various activities and campaigns are organized to engage governments, businesses, and the general public in addressing these crucial challenges and contributing to achieving food security for all.

Established by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in 1979, World Food Day has been observed annually on October 16th since 1981. In the European Union, food security and sustainable practices are essential due to the bloc's commitment to ending hunger and reducing food waste. Furthermore, the EU utilizes the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to support European farmers and promote sustainable and accessible food systems. As such, World Food Day relates closely to EU residents and aims to encourage best practices and policies to ensure equal access to nutritious food.

To observe World Food Day, the European Union participates in numerous activities ranging from conferences and workshops to local grassroots events. These initiatives focus on various topics, such as food waste reduction, sustainable farming, and healthy diets. Schools, NGOs, and local communities are involved in raising awareness through educational programs and engaging initiatives. By fostering discussions and actions on these pressing issues, the European Union strengthens its commitment to work towards food security and sustainability while observing World Food Day each year on October 16th.

World Food Day facts

• The theme for World Food Day in 2025 was 365 days of action, Food and Agriculture Organization 80th anniversary. In 2024 the theme was Right to food for a better life and future. In 2023 the theme was Food standards save lives.
• Approximately 1/3 of all food produced worldwide, about $1 trillion dollars worth, is wasted. The biggest culprits are industrialized countries; they waste almost as much food as the entire production weight of sub-Saharan Africa- 222 million vs 230 million tons.
• Sugarcane is the most produced crop worldwide, followed by maize, rice, wheat, potatoes, soybeans, cassava, tomatoes, bananas, onions, apples, and grapes
• According to the EU, an estimated 20% of the total food produced in the EU is wasted. The EU is actively working to reduce food waste by half by 2030.
• Europeans tend to consume a high amount of fresh fruits, vegetables, and cheese. On the other hand, they also have a high per capita consumption of alcohol and soft drinks.

In the News and Trending in the EU for World Food Day

Top things to do in the EU for World Food Day

• Do not waste food. World Food Day promotes Think. Eat. Save. as a way to reduce waste. Think about what you’re buying, plan meals and shop smart. Eat mindfully. Are your eyes too big for your stomach? Save food, save money, save the environment.
• Choose a dish from a European country that you have never tried before and attempt to cook it at home. You can find recipes online or in cookbooks specific to European cuisine.
• Consider purchasing fresh produce, meat, or dairy products from local European farmers. This not only supports local economies but also reduces your carbon footprint by minimizing long-distance transportation of food.