In many countries a large percentage of food is being wasted

Sohani Zahra
مارس 26, 2025
3:58 ب.ظ
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IELTS Band 9 Essay About In many countries a large percentage of food is being wasted

Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “In many countries a large percentage of food is being wasted”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 200 band 9 IELTS samples released in March 2025.

Sample Essay( Band 9)

In many countries a large percentage of food is being wasted.

What do you think are the causes of this problem?

What measures could best be taken to solve it?

Food waste is a pressing global issue, with a significant percentage of food being wasted in many countries. This problem stems from a combination of inefficient supply chains, consumer behavior, and lack of awareness. Addressing this issue requires comprehensive measures at both individual and systemic levels.

One of the primary causes of food waste is inefficiency in the food supply chain. During production, transportation, and storage, a considerable amount of food is lost due to poor infrastructure and handling practices. For example, in developing countries, inadequate refrigeration and storage facilities lead to spoilage of perishable goods. Similarly, in developed countries, strict cosmetic standards for fruits and vegetables result in perfectly edible produce being discarded. These systemic inefficiencies contribute significantly to the overall waste.

Another major factor is consumer behavior. Many people purchase more food than they need, often influenced by promotions and bulk discounts. This leads to food being stored for too long and eventually thrown away when it expires. For instance, households in affluent countries often discard food that is past its “best before” date, even though it may still be safe to eat. Additionally, cultural attitudes towards food, such as the expectation of abundance at social gatherings, further exacerbate the problem.

To tackle food waste, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Governments and businesses should invest in improving infrastructure and technology to reduce losses in the supply chain. For example, better refrigeration systems and more efficient transportation methods can help preserve food for longer periods. Moreover, policies that encourage the donation of surplus food to charities and food banks can ensure that excess food reaches those in need rather than being wasted.

At the consumer level, raising awareness about the impact of food waste and promoting responsible purchasing habits are essential. Educational campaigns can inform people about proper food storage and the difference between “best before” and “use by” dates. Additionally, initiatives like meal planning and composting can help individuals reduce their food waste. For example, apps that connect consumers with discounted surplus food from restaurants and grocery stores are gaining popularity and can play a significant role in minimizing waste.

In conclusion, food waste is a complex issue caused by inefficiencies in the supply chain and consumer behavior. Addressing it requires collaborative efforts from governments, businesses, and individuals. By improving infrastructure, raising awareness, and promoting responsible practices, we can significantly reduce food waste and move towards a more sustainable future.

food waste ضایعات مواد غذایی

Academic Vocabulary in the sample for In many countries a large percentage of food is being wasted

Pressing (/ˈprɛsɪŋ/)
- Example: Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time.
- Meaning: Requiring immediate attention; urgent.
Inefficient (/ˌɪnɪˈfɪʃənt/)
- Example: The inefficient use of resources has led to significant waste.
- Meaning: Not achieving maximum productivity; wasteful.
Systemic (/sɪˈstɛmɪk/)
- Example: The problem of food waste is systemic and requires comprehensive solutions.
- Meaning: Relating to a system as a whole.
Exacerbate (/ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/)
- Example: Poor planning can exacerbate the problem of food waste.
- Meaning: Make a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling worse.
Sustainable (/səˈsteɪnəbəl/)
- Example: We need to adopt more sustainable practices to protect the environment.
- Meaning: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting resources.

Advanced Grammar Structures

Conditional Sentences (Second Conditional):
- Example: “If governments invested in better infrastructure, food waste could be significantly reduced.”
- Contribution: Demonstrates the ability to discuss hypothetical situations, which is a marker of advanced language proficiency.
Passive Voice:
- Example: “Surplus food should be donated to charities rather than being wasted.”
- Contribution: Shifts focus to the action rather than the subject, adding variety and sophistication to the writing.
Relative Clauses:
- Example: “Food that is past its ‘best before’ date is often still safe to eat.”
- Contribution: Adds complexity to sentences and provides additional information without breaking the flow.
Cleft Sentences:
- Example: “What is needed is a comprehensive approach to reducing food waste.”
- Contribution: Emphasizes specific parts of the sentence, making the argument more persuasive and nuanced.
Inversion for Emphasis:
- Example: “Not only does food waste harm the environment, but it also represents a loss of valuable resources.”
- Contribution: Adds a formal tone and highlights key points, which is essential for achieving a higher band score.

Format and Features of a Band 9 Essay

Clear Introduction: The introduction presents the topic and the writer’s opinion in a concise manner.
Coherent Paragraphs: Each paragraph focuses on a single idea, supported by examples and explanations.
Academic Vocabulary: The use of advanced and varied vocabulary enhances the quality of the essay.
Complex Grammar Structures: The inclusion of advanced grammar structures demonstrates a high level of language proficiency.
Strong Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main points and restates the writer’s opinion effectively.

By adhering to these features, the essay achieves clarity, coherence, and sophistication, contributing to a Band 9 score.

Free IELTS Sample Essays with Answers PDF

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