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~ by Richard Sgaglio
World Food Day is the most important day you’ve never heard of. Where would we be without access to proper food and nutrition? If the past several months have taught us anything, it’s not to take things for granted. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw shortages of paper products, cleaners, and, yes, even food. Well-stocked shelves of grocery stores were replaced with reduced choices and long lines at our neighborhood markets.
According to FeedingAmerica.com, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, unemployment has soared and food insecurity has risen drastically. In 2020, more than 54 million people may face hunger because of coronavirus. This year, more than ever, we should be cognizant of the importance of access to food throughout the world.
As far back as 1945 the United Nations recognized food as not a privilege, but a right, and that’s why it created The Food and Agricultural Organization of the U.N. World Food Day is now observed annually on October 16th. Begun in 1979, it’s a day of observance to draw attention to food and hunger issues around the world.
How widespread is the problem in the United States? According to the USDA's latest Household Food Insecurity in the United States report, more than 35 million people in the United States struggled with hunger in 2019. Another 5.6 million describe their food security as “low.”
How Can You Observe World Food Day?
Give to a local food bank
In the United States it is estimated that 1 in 7 people rely on food banks as either their primary or supplemental food source—many of these are working families who suffer from underemployment and cannot afford enough groceries. The top requested items for food banks are healthy, non-perishable items high in protein, such as canned or dry beans, peanut butter, cereals, low-sodium soups, and vegetables and tuna packed in water.
Support small farms
According to the USDA, about 88 percent of the farms in the United States are family farms. They usually practice sustainable agriculture with plants that are indigenous to the area, rotating crops and limiting the use of pesticides. Sadly, many family farmers are unable to produce the volume and variety of crops needed for their own survival. On World Food Day, shop locally at farmer’s markets and local farm stands. This can help support family farms who need our assistance more than ever.
Raise money to end hunger
On World Food Day there are typically a number of food drives held around the corner and around the world. If you don’t know of a local food drive, organize one yourself and donate the food to a local food pantry or soup kitchen. If you are not in a position to organize a food drive, make a cash donation to a food pantry or soup kitchen in your area. A simple internet search can help you identify those making a difference in the community. You can get involved in any way you want and do your part to help end hunger in our community and around the world.
Why is World Food Day Important?
It helps raise awareness
Millions of people suffer the health consequences of malnourishment, which has negative consequences for growing bodies and developing brains. That's why it's important to draw attention to this health crisis—and by doing so, ensure food is available to all who need it.
It’s a reminder hunger can be ended
Our planet currently produces enough food to feed every person on the planet. However, according to the USDA’s Food Waste Facts, 30 – 40% of food is lost or wasted annually. Much of it is “ugly food” which is food that is fine to eat but may be bruised, discolored, or misshaped. We need to be reminded that food is for fueling our bodies and doesn’t have to be picture perfect to be edible and enjoyable. World Food Day acts as an impetus to get involved, reduce food waste, and help provide sustenance for millions.
It brings attention to eating mindfully
If we return to the focus of eating mindfully we can reduce the amount food that's wasted and the number of people going to bed hungry. World Food Day serves as a reminder to help share the bounty, reduce waste, and make choices that are ecologically sustainable.
October 16th may seem just like an ordinary Friday to you this year, but you have an opportunity to make it special for those in need. Make a donation to a local food bank, volunteer at a soup kitchen, or even fill a bag of groceries for your local pantry. It’s up to all of us to make sure no one goes hungry in our community.