摘要：Background: The study was initiated because managing the problem of food losses and waste seems to be essential in terms of reducing pressure on natural environment, growing world population, millions of undernourished people, and economic wellbeing of food operators. The aim of the paper is to analyze and evaluate the problem of food losses and waste, and its consequences. The author has made an attempt to indicate the main determinants of this phenomenon and identify areas of improvement to prevent and combat food losses and waste more effectively. Materials and results: The paper is based on recent literature review, professional research and publications, data collected by FAO and EUROSTAT, EC technical report and regulations. Analysis based on the literature review, secondary data sources and Internet sources helped to indicate the main determinants of FLW and to identify some areas of improvement in preventing and combating FLW. The paper by Kołożyn-Krajewska et al. was the main inspiration for the author to make an extended list of determinants of FLW. Conclusions: Food losses and waste are highly unethical while millions of people are undernourished worldwide. FLW means that resources used in food production have been used in vain. FLW places an unnecessary burden on the environment. The author underlines that the extent, causes and prevention of food losses and waste are different in low, medium and high income countries. The author divides the determinants of food losses and waste into two groups: determinants occurring along a food chain and external conditions effecting FLW. Coherence of food losses and food waste definitions and data collecting are indispensable for proper estimation and effective prevention of the problem.
