FOOD LOSSES AND WASTE IN URUGUAY: A CHALLENGE FOR THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Abstract

Food Loss and Waste (FWD) reaches approximately one third of the production of food intended for human consumption (FAO, 2012). These represent inefficiencies in the use of resources, and have a direct impact on food security and the environment. This work develops a methodology for estimating the generation of FLW in different value chains at the national level, through the systematization and processing of the available information. The analysis of FLW begins with the detailed study of the value chains, in order to achieve sufficient knowledge about the processes involved, in order to achieve a precise understanding of the causes of FLW and the scope of its impacts, in the search efficient of the possible alternatives for reduction or optimal use.