Event Series:
World Food Day
World Food Day
October 16, 2028
World Food Day
World Food Day is an international day celebrated worldwide on October 16. This annual event commemorates the founding of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization in 1945. Most importantly, the day is celebrated by many organizations concerned with hunger and food security. For example, these include the World Food Programme, the World Health Organization and the International Fund for Agricultural Development. In addition, World Food Programme received the Nobel Prize in Peace for 2020. It was because of their efforts to combat hunger and contribute to peace in conflict areas. And, lastly, for playing a leading role in stopping the use of hunger as a weapon during war and conflict.
In addition, this day generates global awareness for those who suffer from hunger. For example, it highlights the need for food security and nutritious diets for all. Most importantly, the main focus of this day is that food is a basic and fundamental human right. World Food Day is impacted every year with multiple global challenges, conflict, climate change, rising prices and international tensions.
Wear an orange awareness pin, fabric ribbon or wristband for World Food Day.
Water is Life, Water is Food
Water is essential to life on Earth. And, it covers the majority of the Earth’s surface. It makes up over 50% of our bodies. And water produces our food and supports livelihoods. But this precious resource is not infinite and we need to stop taking it for granted. What we eat, and how that food is produced all affect water. Together, we can take water action for food and be the change.
Leave No One Behind on World Food Day
This theme focuses on tackling global hunger. Due to globalization, urbanization, and income growth, our diets and eating habits have changed. Instead of seasonal, fibre-rich and plant-based food, we have shifted to refined, starches, sugar, fats, salt, processed food, and meat. In urban areas, the time spent preparing food or meals is low because people rely on ready-made food, supermarkets, fast food and street food.
Due to unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles, obesity in people is increasing in developed, low-income countries. According to FAO, 670 million adults are obese. In addition, 120 million girls and boys from 5 to 18 years are obese. Further, 40 million children under 5 are overweight. Around 820 million people suffer from hunger.
History of World Food Day
The member countries of the Food and Agriculture Organization established World Food Day in November 1979 at the organization’s 20th General Conference. It called for the observance of World Food Day on 16 October 1981. This decision was ratified by the UN General Assembly on December 5, 1980. It urged governments and international, national and local organizations to contribute to celebrating World Food Day. Since 1981, World Food Day has been held every year.
Significance of World Food Day
World Food Day is an opportunity to put the spotlight on the global challenge of hunger and malnutrition. The goal of the day is to emphasize equal access to food and water. And to promote sustainable agricultural practices. It also focuses on raising awareness about food-related issues. World Food Day 2023 focuses on the collective responsibility of society to foster healthy and sustainable food systems.
Celebrations of World Food Day
During observance of World Food Day, people are urged to celebrate with those who produce, plant, harvest, fish, or transport our food. And, to call on the public to thank these #FoodHeroes who, no matter the circumstances, continue to provide food to their communities and beyond. This helps communities grow, nourish and sustain our world.
Various events are organized on this day. At FAO, headquartered in Rome, Italy a large scale program is organized. It mainly focuses on the attention towards food supply. Some UN Organizations and universities organize conferences, workshops, presentations on topics like food production, distribution, and food security.
India is a country with diverse cultures and traditions. Festivals are celebrated across the country in different styles and manners from one state to another. On this day, some families preserve food and distribute it to the needy and poor.
About the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
The Food and Agriculture Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations that works towards defeating hunger via international efforts. FAO aims to achieve food security for all and to make sure that people have regular access to high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives.
The Importance of a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet meets the nutritional needs of people by providing sufficient, safe, nutritious, and diverse foods to lead a good life. A healthy diet also reduces the risk of disease.
Do you know that an unhealthy diet is the main risk factor for several deaths from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancers? Nearly one in three people is affected by obesity and some other forms of malnutrition. No doubt, there are solutions to reduce all forms of malnutrition. But global commitment and action need to be taken.
The combination of good nutrition and healthy weight reduces the risk of chronic diseases. If you eat healthfully, nutrients reach your body and you will remain healthy, active, and strong. Physical activity alongside a healthy diet also plays an important role.
