The Romanian Paradox of the Transition from Severe Food Crisis to Massive Food Waste: Chrono-evolution and Bio-approaches Promoted for the Sustainability of the Agri-Food System

Abstract

Romania’s agri-food system reveals a striking paradox, evolving from chronic scarcity and rationing under the communist regime to the present challenge of extensive food waste. This transformation has profound implications for sustainability, social equity, and the country’s transition toward a bioeconomy-based model. The study examines this paradox by identifying the historical, economic, and social determinants of food insecurity and waste in Romania,and by assessing bioeconomic measures to strengthen agri-food sustainability. Drawing on an integrative review of 68 academic, institutional, and legislative sources (2020–2025), the research applies comparative, historical, and policy analyses to evaluate Romania’s position within the European context. The results indicate that weak institutional coordination, fragmented legislation, inefficient resource use, and wasteful consumer behaviour have driven the shift from food crises to food waste. Although temporary price caps and the 2024 law on food waste reduction provided short-term relief, systemic issues—poor enforcement, limited infrastructure, and low circular bioeconomic integration—persist. With over 6,000 tons of food discarded daily, nearly half of which comes from households, Romania must enhance bioeconomic practices such as waste valorisation and organic farming. The study offers practical insights for policymakers by linking food waste reduction to innovation, thereby supporting the EU Green Deal and the Sustainable Development Goals 2, 10, and 12.