Reducing Household Food Waste for a Sustainable Future

Household food waste (HFW) presents a global sustainability challenge, significantly impacting the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Particularly, HFW hampers the progress of SDG 2 (zero hunger) and SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production). With an estimated global annual food waste of 931 million tons, consumers are significant contributors to HFW, influenced by sociodemographic traits and consumption habits. Factors such as excessive production, overbuying, improper planning, and confusion over expiration dates exacerbate HFW across the supply chain. Reducing HFW is essential for addressing hunger, climate change, food security, and resource conservation. Family and Consumer Science (FCS) professionals are identified as key players in addressing HFW through comprehensive education, advocacy, and collaboration. This paper, therefore, proposes practical strategies for FCS professionals to promote effective food purchase planning and enhance food-management skills as sustainable solutions. These strategies, if implemented effectively, can significantly contribute to the UN's ambitious target of halving global food waste by 2030, enhancing sustainability, and improving overall well-being.