Experts tackle food loss, waste index estimation

The Social and Economic Survey Research Institute (Sesri) at Qatar University (QU), in collaboration with the Ministry of Municipality’s Food Security Department, organised a panel discussion on "Estimating the Food Loss and Waste Index: Towards Achieving Food Security and Sustainability”.The event was part of the Baseline Study on Food Loss and Waste Estimation in Qatar 2024, a research project conducted by Sesri in co-operation with the Ministry of Municipality.The panel discussion aimed to provide a scientific and practical approach to measuring food loss and waste in Qatar, exploring methodologies for assessing food waste at various stages, including production, transportation, storage, and consumption, while also reviewing regional and international experiences in this field.A group of experts and researchers from academic, governmental, and international institutions participated in the discussion, including representatives from the QU, the Ministry of Municipality, the Arab Organisation for Agricultural Development, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), and the Saudi General Food Security Authority.Participants presented the latest scientific methods for estimating the Food Loss and Waste Index and reviewed Saudi Arabia’s experience in calculating food loss.The session also highlighted successful initiatives in Qatar aimed at reducing food waste, such as promoting community awareness programmes and encouraging more sustainable consumption patterns.The discussion covered key topics, including the distinction between food loss and food waste and its importance in policy-making, methodologies for measuring food loss, the role of modern technologies in data analysis, and the economic, environmental, and social impacts of food waste in Qatar.Strategies for minimising food loss across supply and distribution chains were also examined.Additionally, the session emphasised the role of individuals and institutions in reducing food loss through awareness and sustainable practices, while showcasing successful governmental and corporate efforts in fostering partnerships for innovative solutions.Participants emphasised that enhancing food security in Qatar requires a comprehensive approach that integrates scientific research, practical policies, and cross-sector collaboration.The event concluded with an interactive discussion session, where participants raised key questions about the challenges facing food waste reduction strategies in Qatar and the region.The discussions resulted in several recommendations, including strengthening field research on food loss and waste, developing clear national policies with regulatory and financial incentives, expanding co-operation between government entities and the private sector to launch innovative projects, enhancing awareness campaigns, encouraging more sustainable consumption habits, and utilising smart technologies for effective monitoring and analysis of food loss.