Food waste interventions in low-and-middle-income countries: A systematic literature review

Summary

This systematic review synthesises evidence from a large literature search on food waste reduction interventions in low- and middle-income countries, examining how such interventions can simultaneously address food security, income generation, and environmental objectives. The authors develop a classification framework based on value chain position and mechanism of action, emphasising that effectiveness depends on optimising interventions across interconnected actors to achieve systemic rather than isolated gains. The review highlights the complexity of designing and implementing food waste interventions that benefit multiple stakeholders without shifting costs or burdens within the food system.

UK applicability

While this review focuses on low- and middle-income countries, the classification framework and evidence on multi-sectoral benefits may inform UK food waste policy, particularly regarding domestic waste reduction in institutional and retail settings. However, the applicability is limited as the UK's food security, infrastructure, and value chain dynamics differ substantially from those of low- and middle-income contexts.

Key measures

Intervention classification by value chain position and mechanism of action; multi-sectoral outcomes including food security, livelihood income, and environmental impacts; evidence synthesis from 8,318 screened studies

Outcomes reported

The systematic review synthesised evidence on food waste reduction interventions across the value chain in low- and middle-income countries, evaluating their effects on food security, livelihood income, and environmental sustainability. The study classified interventions by value chain position and mechanism of action to assess their potential for multi-sectoral benefits.

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