Food has an important social role in China and banquets often lead to leftovers. The country has also shifted its diet from grains toward meat. Per person meat consumption rose a lot by 2022, which raises the environmental cost of any wasted food.
Civic action helped too. An online campaign called Empty the Plate went viral in 2013 and encouraged smaller portions. In 2021 the government passed an Anti‑Food Waste Law that targets wasteful behaviour and some online content. Experts now say production and storage losses are also a big problem, and authorities have a plan to reduce those losses.
Difficult words
- banquet — A large formal meal for many people.banquets
- leftover — Food that remains after a meal is finished.leftovers
- consumption — The amount of food or goods used.
- viral — Spreading very quickly online or between people.
- wasteful — Using more than needed and causing waste.
- production — The process of making or growing goods.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever had leftovers after a meal? What did you do with them?
- Do you think smaller portions are a good idea at big meals? Why or why not?
- What can be done to reduce food losses in storage or production?
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