However , amid the collective observance of these rituals , a significant concern often remains obscured - the profound impact of food waste . Beyond the celebratory aspects , it is essential to acknowledge the unintended consequences of excess in preparing and consuming meals during Ramadhan .

This article aims to explore food waste issues and provide some practical solutions , particularly among children .

By delving into sustainable practices , the article seeks to cultivate an awareness of responsible consumption and waste reduction , especially among children , aligning their actions with the season ’ s essence and fostering a more sustainable future for the community .

BLESSING OF RAMADHAN AND FOOD TRADITIONS

Ramadhan is more than a period of fasting . It is a time of spiritual reflection , heightened gratitude , and increased community involvement . Fasting during daylight hours is a powerful act of self-discipline and a means to empathise with less fortunate people . Prayer and acts of charity are woven into the fabric of daily life , fostering a sense of unity and shared responsibility .

Amid these deeply-rooted traditions , food plays a central role . Families eagerly anticipate breaking the fast each evening , marked by communal prayers and the sharing of carefully prepared meals .

The traditional food practices during Ramadhan are diverse and rich , reflecting the cultural tapestry of the communities that observe this holy month . From savoury dishes to delectable sweets , the culinary offerings are a testament to each family ’ s creativity and culinary heritage .

As families come together to share these meals , a communal spirit of generosity and togetherness prevails . Breaking the fast celebrates abundance and the blessings bestowed upon the community .

However , within this spirit of sharing lies the potential for excess and , unfortunately , waste . The abundance of food , while intended to foster unity and satiate hunger , can inadvertently lead to a surplus that goes uneaten .

Recognising this dynamic is crucial in addressing the dual challenges of preserving the sanctity of Ramadhan traditions while also mitigating the unintended consequences of food waste .

NURTURING THE CHILD !

Islam has prohibited the discarding of food , especially during Ramadhan , which is dedicated to enhancing spirituality , tempering desires , and fostering empathy for the less fortunate . Beyond the spiritual significance , Ramadhan offers fertile ground for nurturing children about essential life values , including food wastage .

Varieties of food are being served and sold during Ramadhan , enlightening the children

BY NUR HANIE MOHD LATIFF

International Institute for Halal Research and Training ( INHART ), International Islamic University Malaysia

AND SITI NURSHAHIDA NAZLI

Department of Environmental Health , Faculty of Health Sciences , Universiti Teknologi MARA ( UiTM ) Cawangan Pulau Pinang , Kampus Bertam

during their early fasting . It was found that families with children tend to generate more food waste , which indicates that children play a role in household food wastage ( Kansal et al ., 2022 ). Thus , teaching our children the importance of mindful eating and appreciating the value of each meal is crucial .

The Quran has declared : “ O Children of Adam ! Dress well every time you go to a place of worship ( or at each performance of worship ). And eat and drink , but do not be wasteful .” ( Quran , Al-A ’ raf , 7:31 ).

Considering that some less fortunate children may go without food , it is beneficial to instil in our children the understanding that sharing food with the less fortunate is a meaningful and compassionate practice . In a world where malnutrition remains a persistent challenge , the unintentional wastage of nutrient-rich foods becomes a poignant paradox .

To comprehend the gravity of the issue , it is essential to zoom out and examine the global food waste crisis . The scale of this predicament is staggering , with eye-opening statistics revealing the enormity of the problem .

Malaysia is expected to generate about 75,000 tonnes of additional food waste during Ramadhan , a 15-20 per cent increase from the regular season ( Chan , 2023 ). In a world where millions suffer from hunger , nearly one-third of all food produced is lost or wasted . This stark reality underscores the urgency of addressing food waste as a global priority .

Moreover , the strain on resources caused by food waste presents an additional layer of complexity . Consider the energy , water , and agricultural inputs invested in producing and distributing discarded food . Redirecting these resources towards more sustainable and impactful initiatives could address food insecurity and environmental sustainability .

The squandering of resources not only contributes to the perpetuation of foodrelated

challenges but also undermines the potential for more conscientious and efficient resource utilisation .

In a study among schoolchildren by Bathmanathan et al . ( 2023 ), the awareness of wastage before the food waste awareness campaign in the school was found to be low and increased tremendously by the completion of the project . The author further stresses that the awareness created and instilled amongst the youngsters can have a multiplying effect on their current and future respective households .

Teaching children about food wastage during Ramadhan goes beyond a mere practical approach . It is an opportunity to shape their values and instil a sense of responsibility towards the environment and those less fortunate . It is important to raise a generation that practices mindful consumption and contributes positively to their communities and the world at large .

PRACTICAL STEPS FOR REDUCING FOOD WASTE

In a work by Yen , et al . ( 2021 ), the children who participated in the study were keen to suggest solutions for the food waste problem at school . This section draws these solutions and extends them into the Ramadhan setting .

Firstly , fostering self-regulation among children entails instilling an awareness of portion control during iftar ( breaking the fast ) and suhoor ( pre-fasting meal eaten before sunrise ). Encouraging them to be mindful of their consumption aids in cultivating responsible eating habits , minimising excess food intake , and reducing waste .

Peer collaboration plays a pivotal role in this endeavour . Organising communal iftar gatherings or collaborative meal preparation activities among peers promotes a collective effort towards efficient resource utilisation and waste reduction . Through such initiatives , children learn the significance of cooperation and shared responsibility in