India produces enough to feed its population of 1.4 billion, yet a significant share of its produce is lost across the value chain.

Ethiopian scientist Addisu Fekadu Andeta has received the 2026 FAO Achievement Award for innovations that are modernizing the processing of enset, an indigenous Ethiopian staple crop with significant potential to strengthen food security and rural livelihoods.

Addressing food waste isn’t just about sustainability - it’s about considering the link with better nutrition and healthy diets to leverage co-benefits. 

Reducing food loss and waste can help transform agrifood systems, conserve natural resources and ease pressure on forests, FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu said on the IDAFLW.

Every day, over a billion meals are left uneaten. The issue is in the spotlight on the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste, observed on 29 September – convened by UNEP and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization.