As an Islamic humanitarian organization, our mission is not only to serve the vulnerable, but also to stay true to the values of justice, compassion, and stewardship, which are important aspects of Islam.

September 29 marks the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste. The UN established this day to raise awareness about the importance of reducing food loss and waste.

Food Waste: A Global Crisis

According to UN Environment Programme, in 2022, 1.05 billion tonnes of food were wasted globally across households, food service, and retail, with households alone discarding over one billion meals daily.  Yet, one in 10 people globally remain hungry.

This is not just a crisis of distribution or economics. It is a crisis of values.

In the words of our Prophet ﷺ:

"The son of Adam does not fill any vessel worse than his stomach..."

(Hadith - Tirmidhi)

And yet, we are living in a time where food is wasted at alarming levels—from farms and factories to supermarkets and homes.

 

What Islam Teaches Us About Food and Waste?

 Islam is a religion of balance (mīzān), gratitude (shukr), and accountability (ḥisāb). Food is a ni‘mah (blessing), and to waste it is to show ingratitude for what Allah(swt) has provided.

"Eat and drink, but do not be excessive. Indeed, He does not like the wasteful."

(Qur’an 7:31)

 

The Impact of Food Loss and Waste

 

Environmental: Wasted food contributes to nearly 8–10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, worsening climate change.  Underdeveloped countries suffer from this the most.

Economic: The world loses $940 billion annually through food waste, funds that could help eliminate poverty and hunger.

Ethical: With millions living in hunger, throwing away edible food is a betrayal of our brothers and sisters in need.

 

How is Muslim Hands Responding?

 

As an Islamic NGO, our commitment goes beyond charity—it is about justice, dignity, and sustainability. Here’s how we are working to reduce food loss and waste:

 

1. Food Distribution with Ihsan (Excellence)

 

We ensure every food parcel we distribute is packed with care, focusing on quality, shelf-life, and dignity.

2. Supporting Local Farmers

 

We help farmers improve harvesting, storage, and market access—reducing post-harvest loss.

 

What You Can Do ?

 

Let this day be a reminder that all of us are guardians of Allah’s ( swt) blessings:

 

At Home:

 

• Cook and serve only what is needed.
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• Use leftovers creatively.
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• Learn how to store fresh produce properly.
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• Involve children in understanding food as an amanah (trust).

 

 

In the Community:

 

• Organize food drives with intention.
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• Support local farmers’ markets and ethical supply chains.
•  
• Avoid over-catering at events and weddings—donate excess food. 

 

As an Ummah:

 

• Raise your voice for policies that support fair food systems.

 

• Promote the Islamic principles of moderation and gratitude.

 

A Dua to Reflect On:

 

"O Allah, grant us barakah in our food, make us of the grateful, and protect us from being among the wasteful."

Ameen.

 

On this International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste, renew your niyyah (intention) to preserve the blessings Allah (swt) has given us. In every loaf of bread, every grain of rice, every date on the plate—there is a test, a trust, and a reward.

 

“The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others.”

(Hadith - Daraqutni)

 

Let us be those people.

Donate a food parcel

Host a community awareness session

Feed a Child in Yemen for one year

Donate a food parcel to families in Gaza

Feed a classroom so children can excel in their studies and be responsible adults

 

Together, through faith and action, we can build a world where no food and no life is wasted.

 

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