ISTANBUL, June 6, 2026 — Approximately one-third of all food produced worldwide is lost or wasted before it reaches consumers, resulting in an estimated annual economic loss of $1 trillion, according to Turkish Minister of Agriculture and Forestry İbrahim Yumaklı.

Speaking at the High-Level Agriculture Ministers Panel held during the Zero Waste Forum 2026 at Istanbul’s Atatürk Airport, Yumaklı emphasized the urgent need to reduce food losses throughout the supply chain. The forum was organized under the auspices of the Istanbul Governorship and coordinated by the Zero Waste Foundation.

Addressing delegates, Yumaklı said the world faces mounting challenges from population growth, shrinking natural resources, and increasing climate risks. He argued that protecting food after production is just as important as producing it, as global food security depends not only on agricultural output but also on minimizing waste and inefficiencies.

According to figures cited by the minister, around 13% of food is lost during post-harvest processes, while an additional 19% is wasted in households, supermarkets, restaurants, and food-service operations. Combined, these losses mean that roughly one-third of all food produced globally disappears before it can be consumed.

Beyond the economic consequences, food loss and waste are also major environmental concerns. Yumaklı noted that food waste accounts for an estimated 8% to 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, making it a significant contributor to climate change.

The minister highlighted the contradiction between widespread hunger and large-scale food waste, questioning how millions of people can still face food insecurity while billions of tons of food are produced each year. He described hunger as more than a statistical issue, calling it a human and moral challenge that affects families and communities worldwide.

Looking ahead, Yumaklı stressed that strengthening food security requires more than increasing production. He said countries must also improve storage, transportation, and distribution systems to ensure food reaches consumers efficiently. Every product lost after harvest, he noted, represents not only wasted food but also wasted water, energy, land, and labor.

Concluding his remarks, the minister called for stronger international cooperation, technology sharing, and investment in post-harvest solutions. He said reducing food losses would help build more resilient food systems, support rural development, and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.

Source: Patronlar Dünyası/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök