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'Ugly food' 'how ugly food becomes the trend of the future
Table of Contents
1. The problem of food waste in the world
Food and Agriculture (FAO), 1⁄3 of all food produced globally is wasted. This disproportion points to the enormous paradox of the modern food system. In Poland, the situation is not different from this trend. A significant part of this loss is caused by ugly food, i.e. vegetables and fruits rejected because of their appearance. The problem of food waste is one of the most important challenges facing the modern world, both ecologically and socially.2. The effects of food waste
Food production, which is never consumed, generates 810% of global CO2 emissions. It is estimated that 250 trillion litres of water are used to produce discarded food annually, equivalent to three times the annual flow of one of the world's largest rivers (Marston L.T. I, 2021).3. Causes of ugly food
Additionally, external factors such as drought, rain, precipitation or temperature fluctuations can lead to irregular shapes, stains or other imperfections. However, this is not nature and market requirements play a key role. Consumers, accustomed to seeing ideal vegetables and fruits on store shelves, rarely choose those that deviate from the norm. Farmers and producers can often not afford to sell more expensive products because their collection and preparation for distribution requires additional labour costs. In some regions there is also a shortage of products that have made the use of this type of products more efficient.4. How to support the ugly food trend
Thanks to various initiatives, technological innovations and changes in the food industry, more and more people are realizing the value of the so-called "ugly food".5. Mobile apps to prevent food waste
One of the most effective tools is mobile apps, which allow users to buy unsold meals from restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores at affordable prices.6. Ugly food in restaurants and catering companies
In Poland, more and more restaurants and catering companies are choosing to cooperate with local farmers who supply them with non-standard-looking products. Restaurants around the world are increasingly incorporating ugly food into their menu and emphasizing their quality and taste. This not only supports the local economy, but also contributes to reducing the problem of food waste. Many locations promote dishes prepared from products that do not meet aesthetic standards, but are full-value.7. Social campaigns and education about food waste
In Poland there are initiatives, for example consumer education plays a key role in promoting the trend ugly food. Don't waste food Food Bank Foundation, which also promotes the use of ??ugly foods. NGOs run campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the problem of food waste and encouraging the choice of non-standard-looking products.8. Special sections in supermarkets and retail stores
Supporting the ugly food trend is much more than just a fad it's a real step towards a sustainable future. These seemingly small steps have a huge impact on the environment, the economy and society they contribute to reducing waste, saving natural resources, and building a more conscious and responsible society. Many of them have special shelves or sections where you can buy vegetables and fruits with a non-standard look at lower prices. Each of us can become part of this change by taking simple but meaningful action. Supermarkets and retail chains are also beginning to realize the potential for uggly foods.
