New data from the World Food Programme (WFP) has revealed a deepening global hunger crisis, with an estimated 43 million children worldwide facing severe food shortages, even as vast amounts of food continue to be wasted each year.

According to the UN agency, more than 3 million children die annually from hunger-related causes, highlighting the stark imbalance between food availability and access. Despite this, around 1.3 billion tons of food—roughly one-third of all food produced for human consumption—is lost or wasted globally each year.

Global Hunger on the Rise

Data compiled from the Global Report on Food Crises shows that more than 295 million people across 53 countries experienced acute hunger in 2024, marking an increase of 13.7 million compared to the previous year.

The most severe level of food insecurity—classified as famine—is currently affecting approximately 1.4 million people worldwide.

The Gaza Strip tops the list, with around 640,600 people facing famine conditions, followed closely by Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, Haiti, and Mali.

In addition, more than 30 million people globally are experiencing Level 4 acute food insecurity, with Sudan, Yemen, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Afghanistan, and Myanmar among the hardest-hit regions. Gaza also remains among the most affected areas at this level.

Children Most at Risk

Children continue to bear the brunt of the crisis. UN figures indicate that approximately 45% of deaths among children under the age of five are linked to hunger and malnutrition.

With 43 million children facing severe hunger worldwide, humanitarian agencies warn of long-term impacts on health, development, and survival.

Focus on Food Waste

The United Nations has designated “food waste” as the theme for this year’s International Zero Waste Day, calling on governments, businesses, and individuals to take urgent action to reduce waste and improve food distribution systems.

Billions of Tons Wasted Annually

The report highlights that approximately one-third of global food production—about 1.3 billion tons—is lost or wasted every year, underscoring inefficiencies in supply chains and consumption patterns.

Among countries with the highest levels of food waste:

-China leads with over 108 million tons wasted annually.

-India follows with more than 78 million tons.

-Pakistan records around 31 million tons, with one of the highest per capita waste levels.

-Nigeria wastes approximately 24.8 million tons due to infrastructure and storage challenges.

-The United States discards over 24 million tons annually, largely driven by high consumption.

-Brazil wastes more than 20 million tons, mainly during harvesting and transportation.

-Egypt ranks among the highest per capita food wasters globally.

-Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Mexico also report significant annual losses.

A Growing Global Challenge

Experts warn that the coexistence of widespread hunger and massive food waste represents one of the most pressing global challenges. Addressing inefficiencies in food systems, improving storage and transportation, and raising awareness about consumption habits are seen as key steps toward reducing both hunger and waste.

The findings underscore the urgent need for coordinated international action to tackle food insecurity while minimizing losses across the global food supply chain. (ILKHA)