Phuket takes a bite out of food waste with food banks project
Phuket is stepping up to combat food waste and hunger with a groundbreaking new initiative.
The Food Conservation Project: Developing Food Banks was officially launched yesterday, December 17, in the Laem Tukkae Community, Ratsada, spearheaded by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) in partnership with the Scholars of Sustenance Foundation (SOS Thailand).
Deputy Permanent Secretary Chatuphon Rojanaphanich led the event, joined by Tawi Impoonthrap, Operations Manager of SOS Thailand, alongside representatives from the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Ratsada Municipality, and local community organisations.
“This project addresses two urgent issues: reducing food waste and improving food security for vulnerable populations.”
Chatuphon noted that Thailand produces nearly 4 million tonnes of surplus food each year while 3.8 million low-income individuals struggle to access proper nutrition.
“Managing surplus food through food banks raises awareness about food waste, reduces resource loss, and enhances food security for those in need.”
The initiative aims to rescue surplus food at its source, transforming waste into a vital resource for communities in need. Community participation and partnerships are at the project’s heart, with organisations working hand-in-hand to ensure success.
Tawi underscored the collective effort needed to address the issue.
“Solving the problem of food waste requires cooperation across all sectors. Together, we can achieve meaningful, lasting results.”
The project isn’t just about feeding the hungry; it’s about creating a sustainable, waste-conscious society. With government and community backing, it promises to become a model for food conservation nationwide, reported Phuket News.
In related news, Israeli food technology has the potential to significantly enhance Thailand’s agriculture sector, according to Israeli Ambassador Orna Sagiv.
Speaking at the Savor the Future of Food: Satisfy Your Hunger with Israel’s Innovation event in Bangkok held recently, Sagiv highlighted Thailand’s vital role as the kitchen of the world, emphasising its major contributions to food production and supply on a global scale.
