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ADAFSA Initiates Comprehensive Strategy to Combat Food Loss and Waste

by Swati Gupta

September 29, 2023 20

The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) is reinforcing its commitment to agricultural and food sustainability in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by launching a comprehensive strategy aimed at reducing food loss and waste (FLW) and enhancing production chain efficiency. On the occasion of the World Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste, observed annually on September 29th, ADAFSA announced its multi-faceted approach to tackle this critical issue.

The FLW reduction strategy encompasses several fundamental pillars, with a primary focus on legislation related to agriculture and food safety. ADAFSA has been actively involved in developing and updating legislation that addresses food safety concerns at various stages of the production chain. These legislative measures are designed to promote good practices in food handling and management, which play a pivotal role in reducing food spoilage—a leading cause of FLW across the entire food supply chain.

One significant achievement has been the issuance of guidelines for food establishments that simplify the legislative requirements, making them more accessible and understandable. Additionally, guidelines for good agricultural practices have been provided to minimize loss and waste during harvesting and transportation processes.

ADAFSA adopts a risk analysis approach, grounded in scientific evidence, to assess product safety. This approach contributes to the reduction of FLW by ensuring that products are handled and processed correctly throughout their journey from farm to table. At the federal level, ADAFSA collaborates with federal authorities to revise and amend technical regulations related to food labeling, production, and expiration dates, aligning them with international standards. Expiration dates, in particular, play a crucial role in minimizing FLW.

The Authority provides essential guidance and awareness to farmers, emphasizing best practices to preserve the quality of fruits after harvesting. This includes prompt cooling of harvested produce and storing it at optimal temperatures to extend shelf life and minimize losses. Farmers are also advised on selecting crop varieties suited to the UAE’s climate and agricultural conditions, ensuring efficient use of limited natural resources.

Moreover, ADAFSA promotes the use of renewable resources, such as solar energy and recycled water, in agriculture. The Authority conducts training programs for agricultural workers to raise awareness about sustainability concepts, proper pesticide usage, and post-harvest handling techniques that preserve product quality and reduce damage during post-harvest phases.

ADAFSA recently issued 36 extension manuals focusing on preserving the quality of fruits post-harvest for 41 different crops. These manuals provide crucial insights into post-harvest handling, which can significantly extend a product’s shelf life, reduce production losses, and enhance food security.

To address food waste in the catering sector, ADAFSA issued a guidance manual, aligning with international best practices and governmental directives. This manual guides food service establishments in reducing food waste, thereby contributing to food security and environmental protection. It emphasizes eco-friendly approaches and enhancing the economic and environmental efficiency of the food and agriculture sectors through the use of food waste in organic fertilizers.

ADAFSA encourages the catering sector to develop food waste reduction plans, engage consumers in waste reduction through awareness campaigns, and offer various meal sizes to cater to different consumer needs, thereby reducing food waste.

To combat FLW at the consumer level, ADAFSA conducts extensive awareness campaigns to educate individuals on proper food storage and the importance of consuming food based on actual needs, thus minimizing waste. Collaborating with organizations like the UAE Red Crescent, ADAFSA organizes educational workshops in schools and universities, enlightening students about preserving food, reducing waste, and their role in sustaining food security.

ADAFSA calls upon all stakeholders in the food chain to avoid behaviors and practices that contribute to FLW. Recognizing that significant food waste occurs during the stages from harvest to retail, the Authority emphasizes the importance of caring for products throughout these stages and adhering to advice and guidelines that reduce food loss.

Furthermore, ADAFSA encourages consumers to adopt responsible eating habits, which include preparing and purchasing food quantities based on actual needs, adhering to proper storage practices, and practicing safe shopping. These positive behaviors contribute to the preservation of food and the reduction of food waste, aligning with the Authority’s commitment to food security and sustainability in Abu Dhabi.