World Food Day: History, Theme & How to Take Action

World Food Day is observed each year to raise global awareness about hunger, malnutrition, and the pressing need for sustainable food systems. It serves as a reminder that access to safe and nutritious food is a fundamental human right, not a privilege. The day unites nations, communities, and individuals in reaffirming a shared commitment to end hunger, strengthen food security, and build a future where healthy food is available for all.

When Is World Food Day 2025?

World Food Day 2025 will be observed on 16 October 2025, a date shared every year to commemorate the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations. The day unites people across the world to reflect on food security, sustainable agriculture, and the shared responsibility of ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious meals.

What Is World Food Day?

World Food Day is an international day of awareness and action dedicated to tackling global hunger and promoting food security for all. World Food Day brings together governments, organisations, and individuals to highlight the ongoing challenges of hunger and malnutrition and to drive efforts towards sustainable food systems that ensure no one is left behind.

History of World Food Day

The World Food Day history dates back to 1945, when the FAO was established to improve global nutrition and agricultural productivity. However, it was not until 1979 that World Food Day was officially recognised by the United Nations, following a proposal from former Hungarian Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Pál Romány.

Since 1981, World Food Day has featured a new theme each year, focusing on global food challenges such as agricultural innovation, sustainable diets, and climate resilience.

Theme for World Food Day 2025

The tentative World Food Day 2025 theme is “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future,” highlighting the importance of collaboration to build sustainable and inclusive food systems. This year’s theme highlights the power of collaboration among governments, farmers, researchers, consumers, and private organisations to build stronger, fairer, and more sustainable food systems.

It calls for unity in action to make nutritious food accessible to everyone while safeguarding the environment for generations to come. The World Food Day theme for 2025 reminds us that a better future depends on partnerships that bridge the gap between food producers and consumers.

Why World Food Day Matters

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 3 billion people worldwide cannot afford or access safe, nutritious, and sufficient food. This stark reality highlights why World Food Day remains deeply relevant. It calls attention to the urgent need for sustainable food systems, equitable access to nutrition, and collective action to end hunger. The day is a reminder that building a food-secure world begins with informed choices, responsible consumption, and shared responsibility at every level of society.

Global Hunger and Food Security Facts

• Between 638 million and 720 million people are affected by chronic hunger globally (FAO, 2024).
• 30% of all food produced globally is lost or wasted every year.
• 70% of freshwater use is linked to agriculture, highlighting the link between water conservation and food security.
• Smallholder farmers, who produce nearly one-third of the world’s food, face some of the highest levels of poverty and climate risk.
• The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) aims to end hunger, achieve food security, and improve nutrition by 2030, but progress has slowed since the COVID-19 pandemic.

How Individuals Can Take Action

1. Reduce food waste by planning meals, storing food properly, and repurposing leftovers.
2. Choose sustainable and locally sourced foods to lower your environmental impact.
3. Support organisations that fight hunger and promote food security through donations or volunteering.
4. Raise hunger and food security awareness on social media using relevant hashtags.
5. Advocate for better food policies by contacting your representatives and supporting evidence-based reforms.
6. Educate others about nutrition, sustainable eating habits, and food safety practices.
7. Participate in World Food Day events such as community meals, discussions, and educational activities.

Role of Governments and Organisations

Governments and international organisations have a central role to play in addressing hunger and food insecurity. This includes developing policies that support sustainable agriculture, investing in rural development, and ensuring equitable access to nutritious food.

The FAO, along with other UN agencies like the World Food Programme, coordinates global efforts to respond to emergencies, improve food systems, and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Governments are also urged to re-evaluate agricultural subsidies to prioritise nutritious and environmentally friendly food production.

Sustainable Food Practices for Daily Life

• Buy seasonal and locally grown produce to reduce the carbon footprint.
• Adopt a more plant-forward diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains to reduce resource use and environmental impact.
• Use reusable bags, containers, and packaging to minimise waste.
• Compost organic waste instead of sending it to a landfill.
• Avoid over-purchasing by making shopping lists and planning meals.
• Support farmers' markets and ethical food brands.
• Educate yourself and others about the origins and impacts of your food choices.

World Food Day Events Around the World

• India: Nutrition Mission campaigns and food awareness drives under Poshan Abhiyaan promote balanced diets and sustainable eating.
• United States: Urban farming workshops and food waste reduction campaigns encourage community-driven sustainability.
• Italy: FAO Headquarters in Rome hosts global conferences and exhibitions focused on food security and climate resilience.
• Kenya and Nigeria: School-based nutrition programmes and youth-led farming initiatives raise awareness about sustainable agriculture and food security.
• Japan: Food technology fairs and innovation expos highlight advancements in sustainable production and waste reduction.

Conclusion

World Food Day 2025 reminds us that the future of food depends on unity: working hand in hand for innovation, fairness, and sustainability. Every effort, from supporting local farmers to reducing waste, contributes to a better global food system.

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FAQs

1. When is World Food Day celebrated?

World Food Day is celebrated every year on October 16th. This date marks the anniversary of the FAO's founding in 1945.

2. Who started World Food Day?

World Food Day was established by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in 1979, following a proposal by the Hungarian delegation at the organisation's 20th General Conference.

3. What is the theme for World Food Day 2025?

The theme for World Food Day 2025 is "Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future", emphasising global collaboration towards sustainable and equitable food systems.

4. How can I participate in World Food Day?

You can participate in World Food Day by joining local events, donating to hunger relief agencies, reducing food waste, spreading awareness online, and advocating for sustainable food policies.

5. Why is food security important?

Food security is essential for health, economic stability, and social well-being. It ensures that all people have reliable access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food, which is fundamental for human development and achieving global equity.

References

• https://www.genevaenvironmentnetwork.org/events/world-food-day-2025/
• https://www.weforum.org/stories/2022/10/world-food-day-what-is-it-why-do-we-need-it/
• https://www.fao.org/world-food-day/en
• https://www.fao.org/publications/fao-flagship-publications/the-state-of-food-security-and-nutrition-in-the-world/en
• https://www.who.int/health-topics/healthy-diet#tab=tab_1