Wasting food can occur for a variety of reasons, such as overproduction, poor planning, lack of education on proper storage techniques, and a lack of understanding of the value of food. It can also happen due to a lack of access to proper disposal methods or a lack of resources to redistribute excess food to those in need.

In terms of what the Bible says about wasting food, there are several passages that address the topic. One example is from Proverbs 12:27, which states “The lazy person does not roast what they took in hunting, but diligence is precious wealth.” This passage suggests that those who are lazy or wasteful with the resources they have, including food, will not be rewarded.

Another example can be found in the story of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), where the younger son squanders his inheritance and ends up in dire straits. This story can be seen as a cautionary tale against wasting resources, including food.

In Ecclesiastes 3:13 it states “that everyone should eat and drink and take pleasure in all their toil—this is God’s gift to them.” It highlights that food is a gift from God and should be enjoyed and appreciated, not wasted.

In Leviticus 19:9-10, it says “When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Do not go over your vineyard a second time or pick up the grapes that have fallen. Leave them for the poor and the alien.” This passage emphasizes the importance of leaving some of the harvest for the poor and not wasting resources.

In Matthew 25:40, Jesus says “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” This passage suggests that helping the less fortunate, including by not wasting food and sharing resources, is a way to serve God.

In Isaiah 58:7-10, it says “Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter— when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.” This passage highlights the importance of helping the poor and not turning away from those in need, which includes not wasting food and sharing resources.

In the Bible, the act of wasting food is often associated with laziness and a lack of concern for the less fortunate. It is seen as a failure to use resources responsibly and to share with those in need. Many passages encourage the sharing of resources and helping the less fortunate, suggesting that wasting food is not in line with God’s plan.