How do fruits and vegetables differ in their impact on food waste and food systems?

Food waste and sustainable food systems are important global issues, and fruits and vegetables play a major role in these topics. While both fruits and vegetables contribute to food waste, they differ in their impact on food systems.

Fruits and Food Waste

Fruits are often wasted due to overproduction, cosmetic standards, and expiration dates. For instance, bananas are one of the most wasted fruits due to their short shelf life and consumers' preference for ripe bananas. In addition, fruits are more likely to be discarded at home because they are perishable and require careful storage and handling.

Vegetables and Food Systems

Vegetables have a significant impact on food systems, as they are an essential part of healthy diets and can be produced locally. Unlike fruits, vegetables can be stored for longer periods of time and are less likely to spoil quickly. However, the production of vegetables can also have negative impacts on the environment, such as greenhouse gas emissions from transportation and water usage.

To reduce food waste and promote sustainable food systems, individuals and organizations can take steps such as purchasing imperfect produce, reducing food waste at home, and supporting local and seasonal produce.