ABSTRACT
This chapter sets the context of the study by discussing the significance of food sharing among fellow humans following various faiths. Further, it brings to the fore the food in the context of Sustainable Development Goal 2 – Zero Hunger and recent initiatives on the global front by the Food and Agriculture Organization, World Food Programme, and others on combating hunger and the significance of food on health and nutrition. In addition, it discusses the spirit and significance of philanthropic food-sharing practices and traditions across major religions – Hinduism, religions of Indian origin – Buddhism, Sikhism, Jainism, Christianity, and Islam. These traditions have their roots in value systems of culture and are discussed extensively in the religious scriptures, resulting in the continuity and sustainability of food-sharing traditions. Against this backdrop, the chapter discusses the food charity systems, methodology, case studies, and geographical spread across the country and religions, providing an overview of food charity systems.
