WFP: 3 million children die annually from hunger as 1.3 billion tons of food wasted

More than 3 million children die each year from hunger-related causes, while 1.3 billion tons of food—one-third of global production—is wasted annually, according to a report by the World Food Programme (WFP) released on International Zero Waste Day on March 30. The report highlights a stark contradiction between global hunger and food waste figures, with Muslim countries disproportionately affected by hunger-related deaths.

Acute hunger rising

In 2024, more than 295 million people across 53 countries and territories faced various levels of acute hunger, an increase of 13.7 million compared to 2023. Approximately 1.4 million people globally were experiencing famine, the most severe level of acute food insecurity. Gaza leads the regions facing famine with 640,600 people, followed by Sudan with 637,200, South Sudan with 83,500, Yemen with 41,200, Haiti with 8,400, and Mali with 2,600.

Child malnutrition crisis

Children remain among the most vulnerable groups in this crisis. According to WFP data, over 3 million children die annually from hunger-related causes. Globally, 43 million children suffer from severe hunger, and approximately 45% of deaths among children under five are linked to hunger and malnutrition.

Global food waste

While many regions battle hunger, food waste continues at staggering levels. Approximately one-third of all food produced for human consumption—1.3 billion tons—is lost or wasted annually. China leads in food waste with over 108 million tons annually, followed by India with over 78 million tons (approximately 54 kilograms per person per year). Pakistan wastes about 31 million tons annually, while the United States wastes over 24 million tons (approximately 71 kilograms per person).

Zero Waste Day context

The report was released as part of the International Zero Waste Day events organized annually on March 30 by WFP. The day aims to raise awareness about the importance of waste reduction and sustainable consumption patterns in addressing global hunger and environmental challenges.