Could Food Banks Be A Solution To Ensure Food Security?

Abstract

According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), food security is defined as “the situation in which all people have stable physical and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food to meet their nutritional needs and food priorities to live healthy and active lives at all times.” About 2.3 billion people worldwide, or about 30% of the global population, experienced moderate or severe food insecurity in 2021. Food banking has emerged to prevent hunger and waste and ensure everyone can access sustainable and reliable food. In a short time, it has spread worldwide and become an organization of associations, foundations, and businesses that governments support. This review examines the impact of food banking practices on ensuring food security. In addition, the status of food banks worldwide and in Turkey and their impact on diet quality were evaluated.