How Does Gender Influence Food Loss and Waste in Fish Value Chains?
Tackling gender inequality and its relationship with food loss in fish value chains is a development priority and requires a multi-stakeholder approach, involving small-scale value chain actors, development partners and all those who can make a difference
The need to strengthen food production and distribution systems to fight hunger and reduce food loss and waste is not a new concept. Efforts have long been underway to promote sustainable food systems which deliver quality food and nutrition for all, in ways that support economic development, deliver positive social outcomes, and protect the natural environment. Although progress has been made in identifying the direct causes of fish losses and quantifying their magnitude, loss reduction strategies have historically focused on technological solutions, overlooking the gender relations that are a primary factor in the social and economic context which shape the functioning of fisheries value chains at all levels. As the food system continues to evolve, it is essential that a gender lens is considered.
It is estimated the 35 percent of the global harvest in fisheries and aquaculture is either lost or wasted every year. In terms or fish, food loss leads to a reduction in nutritional and economic value, and can potentially result in food safety issues, ultimately impacting food security, livelihoods, and the environment. Wastage rates have been estimated to be highest in North America and Oceania, where about half of all fish caught is wasted at the consumption stage. In Africa and Latin America, fish is mainly lost due to inadequate preservation infrastructure and expertise.
Women make up about 47 percent of those involved in small-scale capture fisheries, and account for around 56 million jobs along the fisheries supply chain, mostly in activities like processing and fish trade. They are, however, mainly concentrated in the low paid or low skilled roles, and are excluded from the most remunerative markets and business opportunities.