Nourishing a Brighter Future: Celebrating World Food Day 2024

 Nourishing a Brighter Future: Celebrating World Food Day 2024

October 16th marks World Food Day, a global celebration dedicated to raising awareness about food security, sustainable agriculture, and healthy eating. This year’s theme is  "Right to foods for a better life and a better future,". The "right to food" refers to the basic human right to have regular, permanent access to nutritious and adequate food. It is essential for a healthy life. This right is key to achieving sustainable development and a better future for individuals and communities.  In this blog, we’ll explore the intersection of food security, food traditions rooted in scriptures, and the rising threat of adulteration. 

The State of Global Food Security

Today, more than 820 million people suffer from hunger worldwide, a staggering figure that not only affects physical health but also mental well-being and economic productivity. Food insecurity has worsened due to the combined impacts of climate change, poverty, and conflict. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the situation, especially for vulnerable populations, disrupting food supply chains and leaving many without access to nutritious meals.

To address these challenges, we must focus on building Sustainable Food Systems, reducing food waste, and promoting Healthy Diets that nourish both people and the planet. Solutions lie in collective action, as well as in supporting local food initiatives and fostering global collaboration.

 Food Policy and Governance: A Global Responsibility

Achieving Zero Hunger is impossible without effective food policy and governance. Governments, NGOs, and the private sector must work together to create environments that enable sustainable agriculture, support small-scale farmers, and ensure equitable access to nutritious food. 

 Call to Action: Steps to Support Global Food Security

Here’s how we can contribute to building a more food-secure world:

1. Support Local Food Initiatives: Programs like “2 Roti Abhiyan” and Collective Feast “Bhandara” for the poor, under the initiative “GIVE is to LIVE” by the Satprerna Trust, are excellent examples of how grassroots efforts can provide meals for the needy.

2. Reduce Food Waste: Be mindful of food waste during large gatherings like weddings and parties. Adopting sustainable consumption habits helps save resources and provides more for those in need.

3. Advocate for Climate-Smart Agriculture: Support policies that promote eco-friendly farming practices, ensuring long-term sustainability for both agriculture and the environment.

4. Engage in Food Education: Participate in community programs that raise awareness about nutrition, sustainability, and food safety. Educated communities can make more informed food choices.

5. Invest in Sustainable Agriculture: Back projects and social enterprises focused on improving agricultural practices and food access, ensuring that future generations will also benefit from sustainable food systems.

By taking these actions, we can move closer to a world where everyone has access to healthy, sustainable food, ensuring that "Zero Hunger" is more than just a goal—it becomes a reality.

Essential Context from Shrimad Bhagavad Gita with reference to Eating Habits

ahaṁ vaiśhvānaro bhūtvā prāṇināṁ deham āśhritaḥ

prāṇāpāna-samāyuktaḥ pachāmy annaṁ chatur-vidham

  This verse is from the Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 15, Verse 14). Here, Shri Krishna describes Himself as the digestive fire within all living beings. 

Let's know how -

Ahaṁ vaiśhvānaro bhūtvā: I (Krishna) become the "Vaishvanara" (the fire of digestion).

Prāṇināṁ deham āśhritaḥ: Residing in the bodies of all living beings.

Prāṇāpāna-samāyuktaḥ: United with the life forces of inhalation (prāṇa) and exhalation (apāna).

Pachāmy annaṁ chatur-vidham: Digest the food; here chatur means four types and annam means food grains. Food is categorized into four types:

 1. Bhojya - Foods that are chewed, such as rice, chapati, etc.

 2. Peya - These are mostly liquid or semi-solid foods which we have to swallow or drink, such as milk, juice, etc. 

 3. Kośhya - Foods that are sucked, such as sugarcane.  

 4. Lehya - This includes foods that are licked, such as honey, etc.

This verse emphasises the Divine Presence in every aspect of life, including the basic act of digestion. It highlights that even our bodily functions are supported by divine energy.

yuktāhāra-vihārasya yukta-cheṣhṭasya karmasu

yukta-svapnāvabodhasya yogo bhavati duḥkha-hā

This verse is from the Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 6, Verse 17) and focuses on moderation and balance in life as key to success in yoga and spiritual practices. Here's a breakdown:

Yuktāhāra-vihārasya: One who is balanced in food and recreation.

Yukta-cheṣhṭasya karmasu: One who is moderate in actions and efforts.

Yukta-svapnāvabodhasya: One who regulates sleep and wakefulness.

Yoga bhavati duḥkha-hā: Such a person, by following the path of yoga, destroys sorrow.

The essence of the verse is that yoga (both physical and spiritual) can effectively remove suffering when one's lifestyle, habits, and efforts are well-regulated and in harmony. Balance is key to attaining peace and freedom from pain.

Simple Yet Effective Tips for a Healthier Life :-

1.Here's how you can stay young and happy. 

Turn to Page No.12 , Niramayam in the 45th Edition of Prabhu Main Tera, an All In One spiritual magazine exclusively by Prernamurti Shriji. 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1W30VLzMs5NQnGR2BKuaXODUz3wRg9IC3/view?usp=drive_link

2. Health is hidden in Kitchen! Can't believe it? 

Watch this exclusive video of Prernamurti Shriji

https://youtu.be/H304YfqzOZs?si=2jNMN4SGs02sZqQQ 

3. Haldi is healthy! - Prernamurti Shriji

https://youtu.be/sEOucgjvUzo?si=FVdStH7cGjhki3Tc 

Our Holy scriptures as well contain many hidden gems, waiting for us to explore thoroughly and live a healthy life.

Furthermore Let's checkout what real Wealth is and how to safeguard it. 

Health is Wealth

"Health is Wealth" is a timeless saying that resonates even more today as we face rising concerns over the purity of our food. Good health is the foundation for a happy, productive life, and it is deeply tied to what we consume. Unfortunately, the modern food market is increasingly plagued by adulteration, especially in essential items like ghee, milk, spices, and oil. Ghee, which has been celebrated in Ayurveda for its health benefits, is now often tainted with harmful chemicals and substitutes like vanaspati (hydrogenated fat) to maximise profits. 

Adulteration a curse for Human beings

The adulteration of food doesn’t just rob it of its nutritional value but also introduces toxic substances into the body. Consuming impure ghee, for instance, can lead to issues like digestive disorders, clogged arteries, and increased cholesterol levels, which elevate the risk of heart disease. Similarly, adulterants in other food products can cause long-term harm, such as kidney damage, hormonal imbalances, and even cancer. 

How can we prevent this? 

As these dangerous practices continue, it becomes crucial for individuals to prioritise food quality and take preventive measures like

• sourcing food from trusted suppliers

• being aware of testing methods

• spreading awareness. 

In a world where health is the true wealth, the fight against adulteration is essential for safeguarding our well-being.

This Festive season Chocolates Yay! or Nay!? 

This festive season, make a conscious choice to prioritise health by saying no to commercial chocolates and opting for healthier, traditional sweets. Chocolates are often loaded with excessive sugar, artificial flavours, and unhealthy fats, which can lead to weight gain, blood sugar spikes, and other health issues. 

Instead, choose nutrient-rich alternatives like homemade laddus, dry fruit mithai, or jaggery-based sweets. These treats not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also provide essential nutrients, fibre, and natural energy. By embracing healthier options, you can enjoy the festivities without compromising your well-being. Make this season both joyful and nourishing and keep adulterated & harmful sweets at bay! 

Curse of Adulteration Touches Our Temples! 

"Tirupati's laddu prasadam controversy sparked debate on cultural preservation vs. modernization. The changed recipe, aimed at ensuring food safety, was criticised for compromising traditional flavours and sacred significance. 

As we celebrate World Food Day, it's essential to acknowledge the intricate relationships between food, culture, and identity.”

Embracing a Vegan Diet: Ethical Significance and Health Benefits

A vegan diet, free from animal products, emphasises plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. Its significance lies in promoting ethical treatment of animals, reducing environmental impact, and supporting sustainability. 

Benefits include improved heart health, lower cancer risk, and enhanced weight management while providing essential nutrients.

Vegan Diet

Conclusion

World Food Day 2024 is a reminder that food is a fundamental human right. By working together, we can:

1. Grow sustainable food systems

2. Nourish healthy communities

3. Sustain our planet for future generations

"Join the movement to End hunger and Promote sustainable food systems. Share your favourite sustainable food tips in the comments  below.

 Let's nourish a brighter future, together!