A workshop on reducing food loss and waste through packaging innovation was held through the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation framework June 5-6 in the central city of Taichung.
The Ministry of Agriculture, organizer of the workshop, said Taiwan is a lead economy for the APEC Food Security Roadmap Towards 2030, and that this event is part of the country’s ongoing commitment to promoting capacity building and best practices sharing related to food waste reduction in member economies.
According to the MOA, more than 140 representatives from 16 APEC member economies took part in the two-day event to review progress of their respective policy measures. Those in attendance included Maximo Torero, chief economist at the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization, and Dana Gunders, executive director of U.S.-based nonprofit ReFED.
Citing the FAO’s 2030 State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report, the ministry called packaging a key tool when it comes to reducing food loss and waste, as it can strengthen food safety and security by extending shelf life and allowing food to be transported farther.
The Asia-Pacific is a major source of food production and exports, the ministry said. Food loss and waste not only squander agricultural resources but also increase production costs, leading to lower income for food producers, a higher burden on consumers and greater negative environmental impact, the MOA added.
To demonstrate Taiwan’s achievements in reducing food loss and waste, the workshop also included an exhibition showcasing the country’s success in promoting innovative food packing, food sharing and circular economies. The ministry said Taiwan will continue to work with its fellow APEC members to ensure global food security and sustainable development. (SFC-E)
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