About World Food Day
World Food Day on 16 October marks the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN in 1945. It raises awareness of hunger, nutrition and sustainable food systems, and was established by FAO member countries in 1979.
Food connects everyone, yet many people around the world still do not have enough nutritious food to eat. World Food Day was created to draw attention to hunger and to the need for food systems that are fair, healthy and good for the planet.
The day marks the anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), founded on 16 October 1945. FAO member countries established World Food Day at the organisation's General Conference in 1979, and today it is observed in countries across the world. It is closely linked to the global goal of zero hunger.
How it is marked
Governments, NGOs and UN agencies hold events on nutrition, farming and food security. Schools run talks on balanced diets, no-waste lunch challenges and visits to farms or community kitchens. Many groups organise food drives for shelters and families in need. In India, where community kitchens, langar and annadanam have long fed people regardless of background, the day fits well with thanking farmers, cutting food waste at home and supporting local food banks.
What to write
A good message is grateful and generous, thanking the people behind our food or inviting someone to share.
- Thank you for running the community kitchen every weekend. So many people eat well because of you.
- Happy World Food Day, Maa. Nobody has ever left your kitchen hungry, and nobody ever will.
- Made too much biryani again. Come over for lunch this week and help me not waste it?
How to wish someone on World Food Day
gratitude for farmers and food workers, and care for anyone who goes without a full plate
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is World Food Day on 16 October?
It marks the date the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations was founded, on 16 October 1945. FAO member countries chose this anniversary when they established the day in 1979.
How can I reduce food waste at home?
Plan meals before shopping, store food properly, use leftovers creatively and check expiry dates regularly. Sharing extra cooked food with neighbours or local food banks also helps.
How can students mark World Food Day?
Students can take part in a no-waste lunch challenge, collect dry rations for a local charity or learn where their food comes from through a farm or market visit. Class discussions on balanced diets also fit the day well.
When is World Food Day in 2026?
World Food Day 2026 falls on Friday, 16 October 2026.
What is World Food Day?
World Food Day on 16 October marks the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN in 1945. It raises awareness of hunger, nutrition and sustainable food systems, and was established by FAO member countries in 1979.
Is World Food Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for World Food Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on World Food Day?
Focus on gratitude for farmers and food workers, and care for anyone who goes without a full plate. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated World Food Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .