Every year on October 16th, the world unites to celebrate World Food Day, a momentous occasion that transcends borders and cultures. Established by the United Nations in 1981, this day serves as a global reminder of the ongoing battle against hunger, malnutrition, and food insecurity. At its core, World Food Day recognizes the fundamental human right to nutritious sustenance and aims to inspire collective action for a better, food-secure world.
In 2023, we gather to commemorate this vital date with a twist. This year, we invite the pioneers of flavor, the stewards of innovation, and the guardians of culinary artistry – food and beverage entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and veterans – to share their insights and visions.
These extraordinary individuals play a pivotal role in shaping not just what we eat, but also how we connect with food, offering a tantalizing taste of the exciting journey that lies ahead.
Join us as we explore their quotes, opinions, and thoughts, and embark on a delectable adventure through the world of food on this World Food Day.
Shridhar Venkat, Chief Executive Officer, The Akshaya Patra Foundation
Today, on World Food Day, we stand together in a shared commitment to a brighter, healthier future. Empowering every child with a nutritious meal is not just a vision; it’s our solemn promise. Through The Akshaya Patra Foundation, we embark on a journey towards a nourished India, where every plate signifies progress and prosperity. Together, we forge a nation where no child goes to bed hungry.
This mission is not confined to a single meal; it’s a catalyst for transformation. Nourished children grow into empowered individuals, contributing to a thriving society. It’s a chain reaction of positive change, starting from a plate of food.
With unwavering dedication, we pave the way for a future where hunger is a relic of the past. Let us join hands and hearts, working towards a nation where the promise of a nutritious meal is a birthright for every child.
Together, we shape a destiny where no child’s potential is stifled by an empty stomach. This is our pledge, and together, we will make it a reality.
Adetee Agarwaal – Founder, PinkAprons
World Food Day resonates deeply with the core values of PinkAprons. We’re not just a food delivery app; we’re a community of culinary enthusiasts, home chefs, and food lovers who understand that every meal can make a difference. It’s about celebrating diversity, supporting local kitchens, and fostering connections. As we mark this special day, let’s remember that each bite we take can be a step towards a more equitable, food-secure world. We’re committed to bringing the flavors of compassion and togetherness to every home we serve, one delicious dish at a time.
Dr. Malini Saba, a self-made businesswoman, philanthropist, author of food books, human rights activist, environmentalist, and psychologist.
’Water is the primary element that unites us all in the vast feast of life. Let’s recognise the fundamental relationship that exists between the food we consume and the water we depend on as we observe World Food Day 2023 with the theme “Water is life, water is food; leave no one behind.” Every bite and sip pays tribute to this crucial interaction between life and this indispensable resource.
Let’s work together to ensure that everyone has access to the life-sustaining combination of food and water in a world where it is not a given. To ensure that no one is denied access to this crucial partnership is our joint responsibility. Let’s fight for sustainability and equitable access, aiming to quench the thirst for both water and food, especially for the underprivileged.
Let’s unite on this World Food Day to promote action as well as awareness of the remarkable alliance between water and food, which sustains human life and brings humanity together. Let’s make sure that no one goes to bed hungry by nourishing not only ourselves but also the rest of the world. The harmony of water and food is a fundamental human right, so let this day serve as a global call to action to ensure that nobody goes to bed hungry. Together, we can turn every drop and every meal into a promise of a healthier, more prosperous future.’’
Vaibhav Gupta, Founder of ChefKart
As CEO of ChefKart, I’m thrilled to celebrate this special day dedicated to the essence of life – food. This year, let’s shed light on the incredible revolution happening right in our kitchens. Home-cooked meals are not just about love and warmth; they are also a powerful force that’s shaping the way we eat and live.
In recent times, we’ve witnessed a remarkable surge in the preparation of home-cooked food. The numbers speak volumes – around 76% of people worldwide have been spending more time in their kitchens, experimenting with flavors and rediscovering the joy of cooking. Amidst this culinary renaissance, 85% of families now prioritize home-cooked meals, not just for their deliciousness, but for the many benefits they bring.
However, while this trend is heartening, it’s crucial to revolutionize our kitchen spaces. We need to promote greater awareness of the nutritional, economic, and environmental advantages of cooking at home. Home-cooked meals are not just healthier, but they can reduce food waste, lessen the carbon footprint, and save money in the long run.
On this World Food Day, let’s encourage one another to continue this culinary journey. Let’s embrace diverse cuisines, share our culinary knowledge, and support initiatives that promote home-cooked meals. By doing so, we not only nourish our bodies but also our planet.
So, here’s to our kitchens, the heart of our homes, and the epicenter of a delicious and sustainable food future. Happy World Food Day, and may the joy of cooking continue to inspire us all!
Dr. Shrey Srivastava – General Physician, Sharda Hospital
Every drop of water counts, and every plate of food matters. Together, we can make a difference in the global quest for food security and a sustainable future.” Good health begins on our plates. Nourishing, wholesome food is not just a meal; it’s a prescription for a healthier, happier world. Eat well, live well.
Beena Keswick, Principal, Orchids The International School, CV Raman Nagar.
Embracing World Food Day, we celebrate a holistic approach to nutrition and wellness education in school. In this partnership, the school illustrates a vital role in providing daily meals in nurturing students’ health and overall well-being. School plays a pivotal role in nourishing young minds to set the stage for a brighter future. We at Orchids believe that a healthy body and a healthy brain converge to construct beautiful and cheerful souls, instilling in students the confidence and vitality they need to succeed. Our food subscription-based meal service, YummyPlate, tailored for students offers nutritionally balanced meals and a well curated menu, following expert nutritional guidelines from WHO and ICMR. This World Food Day, let’s prioritize the nexus between nourishment, education, and holistic wellbeing. Together, by nurturing young minds with wholesome meals and valuable knowledge so that we lay the foundation for healthier, brighter future.
Mr. Jiishu Bansal, the founder of Mie.Roboluscious, The Family Robot Restaurant
In this era of social media and ever-evolving trends, the food industry has undergone a remarkable transformation. It has become a global platform for sharing different cultures and cuisines, thanks to digital mediums. The traditional dining experience has been revolutionized with technological advancements, altering not only the flavors but also the way we enjoy our meals.
Technology’s integration into the food industry is a significant game-changer, influencing people’s food preferences. The surge in popularity of vegan dishes has offered an alternative for those seeking dairy-free options. Furthermore, the culinary landscape has witnessed an influx of fusion cuisines, skillfully blending diverse culinary traditions from around the world.
Food trends are ever-shifting, and the industry is in a perpetual state of innovation. People continue to explore, seeking new and delightful experiences. At Mie.Roboluscious, India’s first talking robot restaurant, we eagerly embrace these emerging trends, striving to provide our patrons with the finest dining experience. Through the assistance of robots, we endeavor to serve exceptional and delectable dishes that cater to the evolving palate of our customers.
Co-Founder and CEO of upliance.ai – Mahek Mody
On this World Food Day, we are excited to unveil our Food Trends Report, which showcases data-driven insights into India’s cooking preferences. With a vast dataset of 3000 households and over 15000 cooking sessions on our delishUp⤴ platform across 11 cities, this report provides fascinating glimpses into the nation’s ever-changing culinary landscape. Some perceptions are confirmed, while others challenge stereotypes, showcasing what’s really happening in our homes. By seamlessly integrating AI into our cooking assistant, delishUp⤴ empowers individuals to begin exploring their culinary passions with innovation and convenience. Our commitment to revolutionizing cooking drives our mission to bring technology and smart connected appliances to every Indian home.
Arpit Agarwal, Founder of FoodGinie
World Food Day is a reminder that our connection with food transcends borders and cultures. At FoodGinie, we take pride in exporting the rich tapestry of Indian flavors to the world. Each frozen delight we offer carries the essence of tradition, innovation, and a commitment to quality. Today, as we celebrate this global culinary journey, let us cherish the universal language of food, uniting people in joy and nourishment. FoodGinie is not just about what’s on your plate; it’s about the shared experience of savoring life’s diverse flavors.
Mansi Ahuja, India Representative of World Macadamia Organization
On this World Food Day, we celebrate the importance of healthy eating in our lives. As a conscious consumer, I proudly advocate for macadamia nuts that are not only nutritious & delicious but also a perfect addition to your daily routine for a healthier lifestyle. The delightfully distinctive taste and decadent texture set macadamias apart as a truly versatile and marvelous nut. They are an exceptional source of the good fats that keep us full and energised. Let us all embrace the joy of mindful, nutritious eating on this special day and beyond.
Zeba Kohli – Chocolate Sommelier Taster & Consultant
As we’re here celebrating World Food Day in 2023, it’s clear that our food and our planet go hand in hand! The adverse impacts of climate change, environmental deterioration, and the decline in biodiversity pose substantial threats to both the production and accessibility of food. The theme for this year, ‘Water is life, water is food. Leave no one behind’ is all about teaming up to tackle these challenges head-on. We’re talking about rolling up our sleeves and getting into sustainable farming, cutting back on food waste, and providing substantial support to small-scale farmers. It’s all about making our food system tough and ready for the future, for all the generations to come
Mr. Sandeep Chachra, Executive Director, ActionAid Association
World Food Day 2023 reminds us of the urgent need to address global hunger and food security. As we celebrate progress in agriculture and sustainable practices, let’s pledge to work together for a future where everyone can access nutritious and sufficient food, promoting a healthier and more equitable world. World Food Day is an opportune moment to recognize how India has helped millions break the cycle of poverty by providing subsidized food grains to low-income households and making essential items more affordable. Let us advocate for Public Distribution Systems (PDS) to be a feature in all countries across the world.
The theme for World Food Day 2023 is “Water is Life, Water is Food” – this reminds us of the vital link between agriculture and ecology. We must recognize the need to move towards agroecological practices as industrial agriculture is over-extractive of water resources and, through indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, is a significant polluter of land, water and plant and animal life.
Let us work together for a world where vulnerable communities, through collective custodianship of Planet Earth’s precious natural resources, work in harmony with nature to benefit all of humanity and all life in this increasingly fragile world.
Artur Joseph Maurer, Founder and CEO of Meisterwurst
Water is key to food security. Crops & livestock need water to grow. Agriculture requires large quantities of water for irrigation and of good quality for various production processes You can ensure water sustainability by reducing your water use or using it more efficiently, taking eco-conscious steps to conserve water, and investing in innovative technologies like water softeners, water filters, smart water management, water harvesting Sea levels are rising & oceans are becoming warmer. Longer more intense droughts threaten crops and freshwater supplies and some of these challenges can be addressed by reducing our reliance on fossil fuels with a focus on greater & innovative energy-efficient solutions A sustainable world is one where everyone counts. Governments, the private sector, academia, civil society, and individuals need to work together in solidarity to prioritize the right of all people to food, nutrition, peace, and equality. Indeed, every one of us, including youth, can work towards an inclusive and sustainable future, showing greater empathy and kindness in our actions.
Ravin Saluja, Director with Sterling Agro Industries Ltd. (Nova Dairy Products)
As we approach World Food Day 2023, we acknowledge the vital role dairy plays in global nutrition. Millions of people throughout the world rely on dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt for their livelihoods in addition to serving as a vital source of nutrition.
Dairy products are an essential part of a balanced diet since they are high in calcium, protein, vitamins, and minerals. They offer essential nourishment for healthy growth and development, particularly for young children. Dairy is also a vital source of income for a large number of farmers and communities worldwide. It makes a substantial economic contribution to rural areas and reduces poverty in many areas. However, it’s important to take sustainability into account while producing dairy products. Animal welfare and environmentally friendly methods are essential to the dairy industry’s long-term viability. In this context, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, preserving water supplies, and enhancing animal husbandry techniques are crucial actions.
Dairy adulteration poses a serious risk to consumer confidence and health. Using inferior ingredients, introducing dangerous additives, or diluting milk with water are examples of unscrupulous practices. In addition to reducing the nutritional value, adulteration like this can have major negative health effects. Regulators and the public must maintain their vigilance, guaranteeing stringent quality control protocols and raising public awareness.
World Food Day 2023 serves as a reminder that dairy products can improve human health, food security, and the state of the economy when they are produced and consumed ethically. As we push for a more just and sustainable food system, let’s not overlook how important dairy is to maintaining livelihoods and feeding the planet. We can all work together to create a future where everyone has access to sustainable and nutrient-dense dairy products.
Shridhar Venkat, Chief Executive Officer, The Akshaya Patra Foundation
Today, on World Food Day, we stand together in a shared commitment to a brighter, healthier future. Empowering every child with a nutritious meal is not just a vision; it’s our solemn promise. Through The Akshaya Patra Foundation, we embark on a journey towards a nourished India, where every plate signifies progress and prosperity. Together, we forge a nation where no child goes to bed hungry.
This mission is not confined to a single meal; it’s a catalyst for transformation. Nourished children grow into empowered individuals, contributing to a thriving society. It’s a chain reaction of positive change, starting from a plate of food.
With unwavering dedication, we pave the way for a future where hunger is a relic of the past. Let us join hands and hearts, working towards a nation where the promise of a nutritious meal is a birthright for every child.
Together, we shape a destiny where no child’s potential is stifled by an empty stomach. This is our pledge, and together, we will make it a reality.
