Food losses and waste (FLW) due to inefficiencies of resource use along the entire food supply chain  and corresponding negative environmental, economic and social impact has been recognised as an  emerging international challenge. 

Both developed and developing countries contribute to FLW although underlying reasons differ. Research activities have increased in recent years but there are still knowledge gaps which hinder  comprehensive, interdisciplinary action in practice.

^{Cover image courtesy of Thinkstock. Middle images usable under CC: Crop image courtesy of CAFNR - Flickr, Mouldy fruit image courtesy of Thomas Bresson - Flickr, and Wonky vegetable image courtesy of Andrew - Flickr}