Why do some Islamic countries exhibit excessive consumption of goods, products, and food during the holy month of Ramadhan, despite the desperate needs of the less fortunate?
The value of these products is substantial, making it essential to avoid extravagance and waste. While this issue exists in societies worldwide, the rate of excess consumption significantly rises during Ramadhan due to traditions and social customs surrounding Iftar and Suhoor.
Studies indicate that food waste can reach alarming levels in some countries, with 25-30% of the food prepared daily being discarded.
The financial value of this waste varies by country and food type but can amount to millions of dollars in certain cases.
Islam and the Holy Qur’an emphasize the importance of reducing food waste, encouraging moderation in consumption, and promoting generosity toward the hungry.
These principles align with the noble human values that Islam upholds.
The Qur’an clearly advises on responsible consumption, stating: “...Eat and drink, but be not excessive.”
This verse urges moderation in food and drink, as excessive consumption is a form of wastefulness that Islam forbids.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) exemplified moderation in eating and drinking, reinforcing this principle through his teachings.
He advised: “A human being should fill one-third of his stomach with food, one-third with drink, and leave one-third for breathing.”
These hadiths highlight the necessity of consuming food wisely and avoiding waste.
At the same time, Islam strongly encourages providing food to the poor and needy, emphasizing the importance of sharing resources rather than squandering them. Numerous Qur’anic verses and hadiths call for feeding the hungry and ensuring that surplus food is distributed fairly.
Rather than being discarded, excess food should be shared with friends, neighbuors, and those in need.
Islam also places great importance on cleanliness and the preservation of food.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “If fruit falls on the ground, pick it up and do not let it go to waste.”
This hadith underscores the significance of using food wisely and preventing spoilage.
In general, Islam advocates moderation in all aspects of life, including food consumption.
The Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH) guide Muslims to avoid extravagance while actively helping others and ensuring that food is not wasted.
Following these teachings requires individual responsibility in reducing food waste and supporting those who lack adequate nourishment.
The Quran clearly advises on responsible consumption, stating: “...Eat and drink, but be not excessive.” This verse urges moderation in food and drink, as excessive consumption is a form of wastefulness that Islam forbids.
The author is a Muscat-based economic analyst who previously worked for CBO and OCCI
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