Biotechnology Innovations Target Global Food Waste Reduction

A stark paradox exists in our world where nearly one-tenth of humanity goes hungry while an estimated 1.05 billion tonnes of food is wasted globally each year. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, this equates to approximately 132 kilograms of food waste per person annually, with households responsible for the largest share at 79 kilograms per capita.

This waste not only represents lost food but also wasted labor, water, and energy, contributing to eight to ten percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, thus exacerbating climate change. Biotechnology innovations are stepping in to combat this pressing issue by reducing food waste across the supply chain.

Biotech crops, also known as genetically modified crops, are designed to improve yields and lower pesticide use while simultaneously addressing food wastage. Insect-resistant crops, such as those utilizing genes from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis, help reduce pre-harvest losses caused by pests.

These crops protect against damage, increase marketable yield, and lower pesticide reliance, ultimately ensuring healthier harvests. Non-browning crops, like the Innate potato, prevent cosmetic damage that leads consumers to reject perfectly edible produce.

By suppressing the browning reaction, these crops remain visually appealing longer, thus reducing waste. Additionally, delayed ripening crops extend the marketable life of fruits and vegetables, allowing more time for them to reach consumers before spoiling.

Drought and salinity-tolerant crops address environmental stresses that lead to crop failure, mitigating losses by ensuring stable yields even under challenging conditions. By enhancing crop resilience and extending freshness, biotech innovations are crucial in the fight against global food waste, promoting sustainability and food security.

As we seek comprehensive solutions to these challenges, the contributions of biotechnology in reducing food waste deserve greater recognition, fulfilling the essential purpose of nourishing the world.