Ugly food how ugly food becomes the trend of the future
Table of Contents
1. The problem of food waste in the world
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), one-third of all food produced globally is wasted. It is more than a billion tonnes per year that go to waste, while almost 800 million people worldwide suffer from hunger. This disparity points to the enormous paradox of the modern food system. In the European Union, the problem is also alarming.2. The effects of food waste
Food waste is a serious challenge with far-reaching consequences for both the environment and the economy. The scale of this phenomenon translates into significant environmental impacts, including key greenhouse gas emissions. Food production, which is never consumed, generates 810% of global CO2 emissions. Additionally, this process is associated with enormous water consumption. It is estimated that 250 trillion litres of water is used to produce wasteful food annually, equivalent to three times the annual flow of one of the world's largest rivers (Marston L. T. et al. 2021).3. Causes of ugly food
This is the result of a complex combination of natural, social and economic factors. First of all, nature does not produce agricultural products in a uniform way. Biodiversity, soil, climatic and genetic conditions make crops often different in shape, size or colour. Additionally, external factors such as drought, rainfall, precipitation or temperature fluctuations can lead to irregular shapes, stains or other defects. Mechanical damage to crops, transport or storage also affects the appearance of products, which are often less attractive or less appealing in the eyes of consumers. However, these products do not attract the market, and they do not require the sale of the products from the key markets to the markets.. To eliminate the need for additional conditions, such as the use of raw materials and raw materials, which can often have a significant impact on the market and the production of these products.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 recognizing the value of so-called ugly food.5. Mobile apps to prevent food waste
One of the most effective tools is mobile apps that allow users to buy unsold meals from restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores at affordable prices.6. Ugly food in restaurants and catering companies
Restaurants around the world increasingly include ugly food in their menus and emphasize their quality and taste. Many locations promote dishes prepared with products that do not meet aesthetic standards, but are full-value. In Poland, more and more restaurants and catering companies decide to cooperate with local farmers who provide them with non-standard-looking products. This not only supports the local economy, but also contributes to reducing the problem of food waste.7. Social campaigns and education about food waste
Consumer education plays a key role in promoting the trend of ugly food. NGOs run campaigns to raise awareness about the problem of food waste and encourage the choice of non-standard-looking products.8. Special sections in supermarkets and retail stores
Supermarkets and retailers are also beginning to see the potential of ugly food. Many of them are introducing special shelves or sections where you can buy non-standard-looking vegetables and fruits at lower prices.