Brazil Advances National Strategy to Reduce Food Loss and Waste

The Government of Brazil has officially approved the 2nd Intersectoral Strategy for the Reduction of Food Loss and Waste. This national policy was announced in Brasília on September 29, 2025, to coincide with the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste. The measure seeks to implement coordinated actions across all stages of the food supply chain to ensure better access to nutrition for the population. The drafting process involved collaboration between various ministries, private sector representatives, and civil society experts under the Interministerial Chamber of Food and Nutrition Security. This strategy is a core component of the broader National Policy for Food and Nutrition Security. By addressing systemic inefficiencies, the government aims to uphold the human right to adequate and healthy food for all citizens. The initiative is also designed to align Brazil with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12.3, which targets a significant reduction in global food waste by 2030. According to data from the United Nations Environment Programme, over one billion tons of food are wasted annually on a global scale. The Brazilian strategy focuses on reducing post-harvest losses and minimizing waste at the retail and household levels. Officials noted that a large portion of food waste occurs within domestic settings and food service industries. By improving infrastructure and public awareness, the government hopes to contribute to the global fight against hunger and malnutrition. This policy shift comes as Brazil continues to solidify its position as a major global agricultural producer. The country remains a leading exporter of commodities such as soybeans, corn, and beef, which are vital to international food security. As the nation balances its role as a global supplier with domestic needs, the focus on waste reduction is seen as a practical step toward sustainability. Future efforts will involve national coordination to monitor progress and ensure that the strategy effectively reaches all regions of the country. The government intends to use this framework to guide public policy and support the transition toward more efficient food systems.