Plan boosts fight against food waste

China aims to significantly reduce per capita food waste and bring grain loss rates below the global average by the end of 2027, according to a recently introduced action plan.

The plan to boost grain conservation and curb food waste was issued by the General Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the General Office of the State Council, China's Cabinet.

The plan sets targets for reducing food waste and enhancing grain efficiency nationwide, from production and storage to processing and consumption.

It emphasizes the application of advanced technologies and high-efficiency machinery to minimize grain loss during harvesting, and farmers will be supported through subsidies and training in precision harvesting techniques.

Promoting scientific grain storage methods and building high-standard granaries are key to reducing grain loss in storage, according to the plan. Green storage initiatives and smart grain storage technologies will enhance the preservation of stored grain, it said.

Investment in modern transportation infrastructure such as specialized railways and terminals will reduce grain losses during transit, the plan said, encouraging the adoption of innovative logistics solutions for efficient grain transportation.

It promotes moderate grain processing standards, higher yield rates of grain and oil, and the use of byproducts such as bran and germ to maximize the use of grain.

It also aims to promote public awareness through educational campaigns and activities, including encouraging families to adopt healthier eating habits and expanding the nationwide Clean Plate campaign, which urges diners to order responsibly and minimize leftovers.

Key sectors targeted in the plan include the food service industry, the workplace and school canteens.

Restaurants are encouraged to promote smaller portion sizes and actively remind customers to avoid excessive ordering. Mechanisms such as savings rewards and food donations to charities are being incentivized, it said.

Schools are encouraged to adopt practices such as meal weighing and customized menu options, while State-owned organizations and enterprises are urged to arrange food portions in canteens appropriately, according to the plan.

China plans to establish a statistical framework for monitoring food loss and waste across sectors, including production, transportation and retail, as well as household consumption. Regular surveys and evaluations will inform policy adjustments and strengthen enforcement, according to the plan.

The country's efforts to promote food conservation and combat food waste still face various challenges and contradictions, an official with the National Development and Reform Commission said on Monday.

Data on food loss and waste remains weak, and statistical investigations and assessments are not fully established. In particular, the catering sector sees significant waste from business banquets and celebrations for weddings and funerals, the official said. The introduction of the action plan aims to foster strong cooperation and encourage the habits of practicing frugality and opposing waste, the official added.