World Food Day

October 16 is World Food Day, an event that aims to draw more attention to the global problem of hunger. Food is a basic human right, yet every ninth person in the world goes hungry.

History

World Food Day was established in 1979 by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), with the aim of promoting food security around the world, especially in times of crisis. The event occurs annually to demonstrate the importance of addressing hunger and to recognize the success of agricultural policies, which governments must develop and make available to the entire population. Each year, World Food Day has a different theme to focus on. Previous themes have included “Climate change. Food and agriculture must also change” and “Feed the world by caring for the earth.”

Interesting Facts

• Two-thirds of people suffering from food shortages are rural producers themselves.
• In 2021, 193 million people were food insecure and needed help to survive, and about half a million were in catastrophic conditions that threaten hunger and death.
• 3.1 billion people cannot provide themselves with a healthy diet.
• 160 million children are forced into child labor due to hunger.

How to Take Part

In the US, 1 in 7 people seek help from food banks. Even employed people suffer from a lack of food. Donate to local food banks financially or donate food on World Food Day. Additionally, gastronomic events are held to celebrate the day. If there is no such event near you, consider organizing one with other caring residents of your city. The best way to celebrate World Food Day is to distribute as much food as possible to people in need. Make a donation to one of the charitable foundations, which exist in every country in the world.

When is World Food Day in 2024?

World Food Day is observed on October 16 each year.

Observations