Forum global sur la sécurité alimentaire et la nutrition (Forum FSN)

I think food losses have to be separated into two main parts: they are pre-harvest and post harvest losses.

Pre-harvest Loss: this loss occurs mostly due to insects, diseases, weeds or other pest animals. For example, in Bhutan pre-harvest losses to insects and diseases is estimated to be about 10 to 20 %' and losses to weeds about 20-30%. But this figures are just estimate and varies widely depending on the crops, environment and stress problems. Another factor, that causes preharvest losses are untimely rainfall, nutrient stress and extreme temperatures. For instance, loss of potato in Bhutan to early spring frost in some years is almost 100% in high altitude; and there are 100% failure of crop when spring rain is absent in potato growing area. Preharvest loss of rice to broad leaved weeds (Potomegaton distinctus) in Bhutan is about 30% regardless of where rice is grown.   

Post harvest losses: these losses occur in store, processing and milling plants, in cooking and while eating. Storage loss of potato to storage insects such as Potato tuber moth in Bhutan is estimated to be about 10-15%; maize storage loss to insects in warmer parts of Bhutan is more than 30%. Milling loss of rice when it is not properly dried is about 20% in Bhutan. Many families in Bhutan waste food while cooking and eating. They tend to cook more than required and ultimately ends up as waste.

What could be done: for preharvest losses and post harvest losses to fungus and insects, technological solutions are there, but requires implementation with adequate resources especially in developing country like Bhutan. while losses in cooking and eating habits need change of mind set and attitude of people which to my mind is the most difficult part. People do not easily give up bad habits and no amount of persuasion or policy measures can change people's habit. It has to come with education and realization. Therefore, more than a technical solution to food losses people's education and awareness are some of the most important measures to be considered. 

Thinlay

Bhutan