Measuring Food Losses and Waste in Ukraine: A Review

Abstract

Global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, economic crises, and conflicts, have exacerbated food insecurity, with an estimated 733 million people facing hunger in 2023. Simultaneously, approximately one-fifth of food produced is lost or wasted annually, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, resource depletion, and economic costs estimated at $1 trillion globally. Alongside Sustainable Development Goals and EU integration objectives, Ukraine has made strides in addressing food loss and waste through legislative initiatives and national strategies. However, challenges persist due to limited data, outdated methodologies, and insufficient integration of FLW-specific policies. This study aims to provide an overview of FLW measurements in Ukraine and outline conceptual steps for achieving a sustainable food future, analyzing the regulatory framework, existing research, and consumer behaviors that influence FLW. The findings highlight gaps in data collection, the need for methodologies tailored to Ukraine’s agricultural and cultural context, and the lack of centralized food waste management systems. Ukrainian households, contributing significantly to agricultural production, face losses due to manual practices, inadequate storage, and traditional consumption behaviors. The study underscores the importance of developing robust national strategies, improving data collection mechanisms, and fostering collaboration among policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to address FLW. By enhancing monitoring and implementing targeted interventions, Ukraine can reduce FLW, contributing to global food security and environmental sustainability.