Milan Expo 2015: 'EU must fight for fairness in food supply chain'

The EU should use the Milan Expo 2015 to encourage sustainable agronomic practices, promote fairness in the supply chain, and fight food waste and malnutrition, says a resolution voted by Parliament on Thursday, the eve of the official opening of the event.

"Global food security, fighting food waste and improving the sustainability of agricultural production are matters that require an urgent and international solution. Today's vote sends a strong signal that Parliament takes these issues seriously. We call on both the European Commission and EU member states to join us and use the Milan Expo as an opportunity to push for solutions to these pressing global challenges", said rapporteur Paolo De Castro (S&D, IT). The resolution was passed by 460 votes to 126, with 20 abstentions

Even though the right to food is a basic human right, areas of food insecurity still exist in the EU, MEPs say.

Estimates suggest that global population growth will require a 70% increase in the food supply by 2050.

MEPs expressed concern over the phenomenon of land grabbing and its impact on food security in developing countries. They also denounced the illegal fisheries emerging all over the world and stressed that these must be fought vigorously in order to deliver food security.

Estimates suggest that around 30% of food worldwide is lost or wasted. Annual food waste in the EU alone amounts to about 89 million tonnes, and is set to rise to about 126 million tonnes by 2020 unless action is taken, MEPs warn.

Members of the Agriculture, Energy and International Trade committees will visit the Milan Expo on 18-19 June to promote efforts to enhance global food security, fight food waste and encourage healthy lifestyles. The Development and Food Safety committees will follow suit later.