Did you know that food lost before it even reaches your plate can harm your health? Food loss, distinct from food waste, occurs at various stages of the supply chain, including production, storage, and transport. This overlooked issue not only impacts food security but also contributes significantly to air pollution and health problems. By understanding the connection between food loss and human health, we can better appreciate the urgency of addressing this problem.
Food loss in the supply chain leads to significant nitrogen emissions and environmental problems, whether the loss occurs during production or storage. During production, crops absorb nitrogen from fertilizers, which is essential for their growth. However, not all the nitrogen applied to the soil is absorbed by the plants. Some of it remains in the soil as residual nitrogen. When crops fail to be harvested, they decompose and release additional nitrogen back into the soil. This excess nitrogen can then be converted into ammonia (NH3) gas, which escapes into the atmosphere.
Similarly, food loss during storage also contributes to nitrogen emissions. Stored food contains nitrogen as part of its biological composition, resulting from the fertilizers and animal feeds used during its production. When this food spoils and decomposes, the nitrogen in the organic matter is released. Microbial activity breaks down the decomposing food, leading to the release of ammonia gas. This ammonia can then volatilize into the atmosphere, where it reacts with other pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) to form fine particulate matter (PM2.5). PM2.5 particles are tiny enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, causing severe respiratory and cardiovascular health issues.
The health effects of PM2.5 pollution are severe. According to the World Health Organization, PM2.5 pollution contributed to 6.4 million premature deaths globally in 2019. The particles can exacerbate conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory illnesses. They also increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases. Vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly at risk from this type of air pollution.
Excess nitrogen from food loss also leads to nitrogen deposition, which harms ecosystems and biodiversity. When nitrogen levels in the soil become too high, it can cause soil acidification and negatively affect plant species adapted to low-nitrogen environments. This ecological damage can indirectly impact human health by reducing the quality and availability of nutritious food. Biodiversity loss can lead to less resilient agricultural systems, making it harder to produce a diverse and stable food supply.
Reducing food loss has shown significant health benefits in various regions. For instance, efforts to minimise food loss in Europe have led to notable improvements in air quality. Studies have shown that reducing food loss can lead to lower PM2.5 levels, which in turn reduces the incidence of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. These improvements in public health can also result in economic benefits, such as lower healthcare costs and increased productivity due to fewer workdays lost to illness.
There are several practical steps we can take to reduce food loss and improve health outcomes. Improving storage facilities and harvesting techniques can significantly reduce the amount of food lost during production. Efficient transport methods and better supply chain management can ensure that more food reaches consumers in good condition. Supporting policies that invest in agricultural infrastructure and research can also help reduce food loss. These policies can provide farmers with the tools and knowledge they need to minimise losses and optimise production.
Technology and innovation play a crucial role in reducing food loss. Advanced storage solutions, such as temperature-controlled warehouses, can prevent spoilage. Precision agriculture techniques allow farmers to apply fertilisers more efficiently, reducing excess nitrogen emissions. Real-time supply chain monitoring can identify and address issues before they lead to significant losses. Innovative approaches and startups focused on minimising food loss are making a substantial impact, demonstrating that technological interventions can lead to positive outcomes for both health and the environment.
Addressing food loss is not just an environmental necessity but also a public health imperative. By taking steps to reduce food loss, we can protect our health and ensure a more sustainable future. Reducing food loss can improve air quality, decrease the prevalence of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and contribute to a healthier, more resilient ecosystem. It is an issue that affects us all, and by working together, we can make a significant difference.
