Food for Sustainability: Pioneering Solutions for Tomorrow

Sustainability is a crucial concept in all aspects of social, cultural, economic, and political life. Food sustainability involves environmentally friendly food production, efficient resource use, self-sufficiency for farmers, and improved quality of life for communities involved. Addressing the overuse of resources in the global food system, accessibility to healthy and safe food for all is very much important. focusing on natural resource preservation and decent working conditions is crucial for sustainable development.

"Annam Brahmam," which translates to "Food is God," is mentioned in ancient Indian texts. In India, food is traditionally treated with respect and reverence, almost like a prayer to God. Eating seasonal, locally grown produce and being thrifty by creating as little waste as possible have long been the norm. The Indian diet is primarily plant-based, reducing its carbon footprint through local consumption of pulses, vegetables, fruits, and other locally grown products, a principle encouraged by ancient medicinal systems. 

Ayurveda suggests eating food with bare hands not only reduce the use of cutlery it also feeds the body and mind. Eating with hands serves as protection to the tongue. The hands act as a temperature sensor, and it becomes easy to gauge the temperature before putting the hot food in the mouth. Before the invention of refrigeration technology, ancient communities had discovered the secret of storing perishable food items for consumption around the year. The method involved sun drying or storing food in salt/sugar/lemon solution or oil. The science of pickles is a way of preserving food. Indian pickles are famous around the world, and they are made using the most sustainable method.

Indian communities are utilizing creative methods to reduce food waste and waste. One such method is repurposing vegetable peels into chutney, which can be used as a meal accompaniment. Ancient locals adapted to seasonal food, preparing dishes with local seasonal products, salt, spices, and non- mechanized kitchen tools. These sustainable traditional practices for food are still prevalent in large parts of India which helps in energy reduction, reduction in food wastage, and make the best use of natural resources. So, it is very important to explore and share the knowledge among all so that we all can contribute to saving our planet by creating a food system that nourishes both people and the environment.

In this era where global challenges are massive, there is an urgent need to apply sustainable food saving systems at all food processing and cooking areas. Through collaboration, innovation, and collective action, hotels and resorts can make a meaningful difference in preserving the planet and promoting social equity for generations to come. We all as a hospitality professionals must prioritize sustainability in by reducing environmental footprints and supporting local communities.