World Hunger Day is globally observed on May 28 every year. This initiative, created by a non-profit organization called The Hunger Project, seeks to end world hunger. World hunger is an issue that has been around for a very long time. Hunger is a severe condition where a body lacks food for a long period of time. There are several causes of hunger around the world, including low incomes, drought, famine, and political crises.
According to the organization, about 820 million people are suffering the terror of chronic hunger. Feeding the hungry is an initiative that everyone can understand and appreciate. Ending world hunger is something we all want. The cause helps to save lives and restore hope and dignity to people when they need it the most.
History of World Hunger Day
World Hunger Day was established in 2011 by The Hunger Project. World hunger cannot simply be solved by sharing a few meals. To create a sustainable solution, the problem needs to be tackled at the root cause. Depending on the country and the situation, initiatives are implemented to help relieve people of hunger.
Improvements in food technology have helped reduce hunger around the world. Being able to preserve food for longer helps in maintaining the food supply. One such example is refrigeration. Oliver Evans invented the first refrigeration machine in 1805.
Because of refrigeration, meat could be transported for longer distances unspoiled. The refrigerators used to preserve food in the home were invented by Fred W. Wolfe in 1913. Ovens also helped. In 1891, the first electric oven was sold in the United States. They were first sold in Britain in 1893.
World Hunger Day timeline
Meat is considered a luxury to the poor who mainly eat bread and potatoes.
Railways and steamships allow people to import cheap grains from North America.
Refrigeration allows people to import cheap meat from Australia and Argentina.
Because of technology like freezers and microwaves, more ordinary people eat a wider variety of food.
World Hunger Day FAQs
Does hunger affect women?
It is estimated that, of the people living in hunger, about 60% are women.
Are all countries affected?
Not equally. About 98% of the people suffering from undernourishment live in low-income countries.
Does hunger kill?
Sure. Hunger is known to kill more people than diseases such as AIDS and malaria.
How to Observe World Hunger Day
Donate
To a charity or non-profit organization to rescue people around the world from hunger. Even a small amount helps.
Share a meal
You can get an extra meal today and give one to someone who may need it. Giving is known to be beneficial to both the giver and receiver.
Conserve food
Access to food is a privilege we should be grateful for. This is a reminder not to take it for granted. If you happen to have too much food, share it.
5 Unexpected Facts About Food
Medicinal ketchup
Ketchup is believed to have medicinal properties and can cure ailments like diarrhea.
Fat chicken
Chickens are now about 266% more fatty than they were 50 years ago.
Stolen cheese
Cheese is the most stolen food in the world with about 4% of the total production being stolen.
Explosive peanuts
The oil from peanuts can be used to make nitroglycerin, which is used in making dynamites.
Chocolate currency
The Maya civilization used chocolate as money or a means of exchange.
Why World Hunger Day is Important
Saving lives
The initiative gathers donations and support to save people from starvation. It unifies us behind one great cause.
It teaches us gratitude
Knowing that some people are struggling to attain the simplest requirements for life evokes so much gratitude within us for what we have. Be grateful on this day.
It promotes generosity
The Day encourages those who have to give to those who don’t have, especially when it comes to an absolute essential like food. This kind of attitude is indispensable for a merciful and humane world.
World Hunger Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 28 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | May 28 | Thursday |
| 2027 | May 28 | Friday |
| 2028 | May 28 | Sunday |
| 2029 | May 28 | Monday |
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