Islamic Teachings Regarding the International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste Reduction

September 28, 2024

As we approach the International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste Reduction (September 29), it is important to reflect on the profound teachings of Islam, particularly from the perspective of the School of Ahl al-Bayt (p), which offers timeless guidance on responsible consumption, food preservation, and avoiding waste. The Holy Quran, the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh&hp), and the sayings of the Imams of the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them) provide us with clear instructions to live in harmony with the blessings bestowed upon us, including food. These teachings guide us in our spiritual lives and offer practical wisdom for building a more just, sustainable, and compassionate society.

The Quran and the Prohibition of Waste

One of the clearest instructions from the Holy Quran regarding wastefulness is in Surah al-A’raf (7:31), where Allah says: “Eat and drink, but do not waste. Verily, He (Allah) does not love the wasteful.” 

This verse speaks directly to the issue of food waste, reminding us to consume the sustenance provided by Allah without extravagance. In a world where food scarcity and hunger still plague many communities, wastefulness becomes a grave moral and ethical issue. Allah, the Creator of all, has made food a blessing for humanity, and we are reminded to cherish it, use it wisely, and ensure that we share it with those in need.

The warning against extravagance and waste is repeated throughout the Quran. In Surah al-Isra (17:27), Allah warns us of the consequences of wastefulness: “Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and Satan has been ungrateful to his Lord.” 

This verse establishes a powerful connection between wastefulness and ingratitude. When we waste food, we are not only disregarding a divine blessing but also demonstrating ingratitude toward the bounties that Allah has generously provided. Wastefulness is thus seen as a form of spiritual corruption, placing individuals among the ranks of the ungrateful and heedless.

The Prophet’s Teachings on Food

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh&hp), as the perfect role model for Muslims, led a life of simplicity and moderation. His teachings on food reflect a deep respect for the blessings of Allah and a strong emphasis on avoiding waste. The Prophet (pbuh&hp) would often pray for barakah (blessing) over food, especially bread, which is considered a fundamental sustenance in many cultures.

In one of his supplications, the Prophet (pbuh&hp) would pray: “O Allah, bless us in our bread, for if there were no bread, we would not pray or fast.”¹ 

This hadith illustrates the central role that bread, a staple food, plays in sustaining not only physical health but also spiritual practices. Without the basic sustenance of food, even essential acts of worship like prayer and fasting would be difficult to perform. This supplication reminds us to appreciate the food that sustains us and to avoid squandering this divine gift.

Teachings of the Imams (p) on Waste and Food

The Imams of the Ahl al-Bayt (pbut) further elaborated on the Islamic principles related to food consumption and avoiding waste. Imam Ali about bread, as a symbol of foods, says: “Honor the bread, for there is a work in it that has been done from the Throne to the Earth and between them.”²

Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (p) also emphasized the importance of avoiding waste and appreciating the sustenance provided by Allah. He said: “The least waste is to pour the remaining water.”³

This Hadith from Imam Sadiq highlights the Islamic principle of avoiding waste, even in small acts. It emphasizes that extravagance is not limited to large-scale consumption but can also be seen in seemingly insignificant actions. By pouring out excess liquid, one is essentially disregarding the value of that resource and contributing to waste. In other words, even the smallest act of waste, such as pouring out the leftover liquid from a container, is considered extravagance. 

This teaching aligns with the broader Islamic principle of sharing food with others, especially those who are less fortunate. By sharing our resources and ensuring that no food is wasted, we are fulfilling our moral duty and earning Allah’s pleasure.

The Modern Relevance of Islamic Teachings on Food Waste

In today’s world, the issue of food waste has reached alarming levels. According to the United Nations, approximately one-third of all food produced for human consumption is wasted globally each year. This is a staggering amount, especially when we consider that millions of people worldwide continue to suffer from hunger and malnutrition.

Based on “Food Waste Index Report 2024” published by UN Environment Programme on 27 March 2024

• While an estimated 735 million people go hungry globally, food loss and waste generate 8 to 10 percent of GHGs and is a methane hotspot.
• Households waste over 1 billion meals worth of edible food every day, the equivalent of 1.3 meals every day for everyone in the world affected by hunger
• Opportunities to finance food loss and waste reduction and low-carbon diets remain untapped, with only USD 0.1 billion invested annually in 2019/20. This represents a minor fraction of annual needs, estimated at USD 48 to 50 billion.

As Muslims, we are called to respond to this crisis with both practical actions and spiritual awareness. The teachings of Islam offer a comprehensive framework for reducing food waste—through gratitude, moderation, sharing, and avoiding extravagance. By adhering to these principles, we not only fulfill our religious duties but also contribute to global efforts to reduce food loss and waste.

Conclusion

The International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste Reduction serves as an important reminder of the responsibilities we bear as stewards of Allah’s creation. By reflecting on the teachings of the Quran, the wisdom of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh&hp), and the guidance of the Imams (p), we are reminded that food is a divine blessing that must be treated with care, gratitude, and respect.

As we observe this day, let us commit ourselves to reducing food waste in our homes, communities, and societies. By doing so, we honor the bounties of Allah, support those in need, and contribute to building a more sustainable and just world for all.

1. Al-Kulaini, Al-Furu of Al-Kafi, Vol. 6, p 287.

2. Ahmad ibn Muhammad al-Barqi, Al-Mahasin, p 585, hadith 81.

3. Al-Kulaini, Al-Furu of Al-Kafi, Vol. 6, p 460.