DUBAI: One third of the food produced in the world is wasted. Just think about that for a moment.
If that statistic shocks you, there is more — a third of the world’s population is starving or malnourished. With the current rate of population growth, the world is at risk of running out of food by 2050, as food production struggles to keep pace.
We probably do not think about this big picture as we go about our day-to-day lives, shopping, cooking and eating out — but we should. Our region has some of the highest percentages of food waste in the world. A whopping 48 percent of total food waste is down to leftover home-cooked or takeaway meals, with discarded extra food from celebration meals being one of the top sources of waste, according to a 2017 YouGov study conducted across Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Egypt. That is not all, a staggering $13 billion worth of food is thrown away in Saudi Arabia every year. This is food that is going straight to landfills, with food waste being considered one of the most significant contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions.
It all comes down to awareness and requires a change in mindset at every level if we are to move past this. Whether it is at governmental policy level, tackling skewed trade issues; at a corporate level where supermarkets and hospitality companies take it upon themselves to reduce what goes into their bins; or at an individual level.
Just because you can financially afford to provide huge amounts of food, it does not mean that you can forget about the environmental and ethical cost.
Every little bit counts. So, the next time you are about to throw out that leftover biryani from the weekend family feast, or over order at a restaurant, just pause to think about your contribution to the issue.
To help make the transition to adopting more responsible food consumption habits easier, here are four simple hacks that will help you cut down your food waste dramatically. Your wallet – and your conscience – will thank us for it!
Shop smarter
There is a wealth of advice out there on grocery shopping to minimize waste. The key thing to remember is planning. Even if you are not a hardcore meal planner, just have a rough idea of what you may be eating during the timeframe you are shopping for. Keep in mind meals that you already have dining out plans for and also the quantities needed of each ingredient. It is always better to buy less and more frequently so your produce is fresher. Even when it comes to pantry essentials, do not over stock only because it is not perishable and may be available at a discounted price, tempting as it might be. Buy according to your requirements and what you are likely to realistically use.
Finally, it is basic common sense but many more of us are guilty of forgetting to do this than would care to admit — check what is already in your fridge and pantry before going for a food shop so you do not double up!
Store properly
Another common error that many people make without meaning to is inefficient storage. Modern fridges have different compartments for good reason — utilize these to maximize the lifespan of your produce. According to the YouGov study, 33 percent of total food waste is made up of fruit and vegetables, while another 33 percent is canned goods.
It is a good idea to keep soon-to-perish items where you can easily see them, so they do not lie forgotten at the back of the fridge or cupboard. Making a bit of an effort with how you store fresh produce also goes a long way — cleaning and packing herbs in airtight containers and separating meat into meal-sized portions, then freezing them, are just two examples.
The freezer is your best friend when it comes to avoiding waste. Whether it is fresh produce or cooked food, anything you have an excess of can be stuck in the freezer and will stay in the same condition that you froze it in, handy for a quick meal down the line. Remember, however, that the texture of some goods, such as potatoes, change when they are frozen.
Know your labels
Many people do not know the distinction between expiry dates and best before dates on packaged food. While an expiry date tells you when something will spoil, best before dates only indicate that the quality of the product may start to decline after a certain date — not that it is unsafe to eat. As much as 72 percent of meats, 68 percent of fruits and vegetables and 55 percent of canned foods are discarded on the basis of best before dates. A good rule of thumb is to rely on your own sense of taste and smell to determine what you should throw out when.
Pack your leftovers
Leftover food in restaurants is one of the largest culprits when it comes to food waste, particularly in this region. Caught between strict health regulations and our lavish dining habits, discarded food in restaurants is responsible for 32 percent of food waste, according to the YouGov study. Do not be shy to ask for any leftovers to be packed. They can make for a delicious second meal or snack, or even provide a basis for some creative repurposing if you are sensible about food safety.
Reduce food waste with these four easy hacks
Reduce food waste with these four easy hacks
Solo dining an emerging trend challenging Saudi traditional culture
- Saudi Arabia’s younger generation are subtly changing eating trends, moving from a full family table to a single seat
RIYADH: In Saudi Arabia, dining out has long been a social ritual, an experience shared with family and friends over lavish meals, full of conversation and camaraderie.
However, a subtle yet noticeable shift is taking place as more Saudis, especially the younger generation, are choosing to dine alone, seeking moments of solitude amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Once considered a rare sight, solo diners are now becoming more common in cafes, restaurants and eateries across the Kingdom. For some, it is a matter of convenience, while for others it is a form of self-care, a way to recharge and reconnect with themselves.
This emerging trend challenges traditional Saudi dining culture, creating new opportunities for restaurants and altering societal perceptions.
For Zain Al-Mansour, solo dining is more than just an alternative to dining with others, it is an experience that he actively cherishes. “I much prefer it over dining with someone,” he says. “I seek it out and make a day out of it for myself. It’s relaxing, and it charges my energy.”
Solo dining has become Al-Mansour’s way to unwind, offering him a chance to indulge in his favorite foods without the distraction of company.
He acknowledges that not everyone feels comfortable dining alone, particularly in a culture where social gatherings are so deeply ingrained.
“Plenty of people would not go out unless it’s with someone else,” Al-Mansour said. “I think everyone should at least try solo dining once and truly treat themselves. Bring a book if you’re worried about boredom, and don’t think twice about what people might think. What matters is that you’re happy.”
Al-Mansour sees solo dining as a form of empowerment, encouraging others to overcome social anxieties and embrace the experience. “It pushes you to talk, at least to the workers, which helps improve social skills.”
In Saudi culture, dining has traditionally been a collective activity, with meals often serving as the focal point of family and social gatherings.
For Bashayer Al-Bloushi, dining alone offered a refreshing change from this norm. “What inspired me to start dining alone was my desire to explore a new experience that offers me space to reflect and relax away from the hustle of daily life,” she said.
Dining alone allows her to savor the ambiance and immerse herself in the restaurant environment without the usual pressure of conversation.
This experience of dining independently has become a cherished form of personal time for Al-Bloushi, allowing her to enjoy moments of solitude. She sees it as an act of self-care and independence, a rare opportunity to connect with oneself.
Al-Bloushi also believes that Saudi restaurants could do more to support this trend. “They could designate cozy, quiet spaces for individual diners and offer meals suitable for one person,” she said. By creating a welcoming and informal atmosphere, restaurants could encourage more people to dine solo without feeling out of place.
For Mira Fahad, solo dining started as a necessity due to her flexible remote job schedule. “As a morning person, I always wanted to go out during the day but couldn’t find anyone available in the mornings,” she said. Over time, solo dining became a cherished ritual. “It’s one of those ‘I need to do it at least once a month’ things, whether in the mornings or nights.”
She finds the experience peaceful and liberating. “You can choose the time and place to your liking, people-watch, read a book, plan your week, or just savor your meal in peace.” However, she admits that solo dining can lose its charm if overdone, emphasizing the importance of balance.
For some solo diners, cultural perceptions remain a challenge. Linah Al-Ahmadi has been dining alone since 2016 and considers it a normal part of her lifestyle. “I didn’t start this habit recently; I’ve been solo dining since I was a teenager,” she said. While she embraces the experience, she is aware of the societal views that make solo dining an unusual choice in Saudi Arabia. “We are a collective society, and we tend to do things within a circle. As a society, we have this notion that it’s abnormal to do things alone.”
Al-Ahmadi describes dining alone in a culture that values group activities as being “the stranger in the middle of the diner.” Despite this, she remains committed to her choice, valuing the independence and freedom it provides. For her, solo dining is not about isolation but rather about enjoying personal time without depending on others to accompany her.
The growing interest in solo dining presents an opportunity for Saudi restaurants to adapt and cater to individual diners. Al-Ahmadi points out that making reservations for one can be difficult, as many restaurants and apps only accept bookings for groups.
Additionally, solo diners are often directed to bar seating or shared tables, which may not suit everyone’s preference for privacy.
“I struggle a lot with reservations,” Al-Ahmadi said. “Sometimes, I go out alone with the intention of not socializing, but being at a bar feels too intimate.” She advocates for solo diners to be given the choice of regular tables, creating a more inclusive environment for those who want to enjoy a meal without the company of others.
Mira Fahad offers additional suggestions, including creating solo dining tables in corners or quieter spots and offering digital menus for easy ordering. “Maybe provide small, single-portion meals and digital entertainment options for solo diners,” she said, adding that these touches could make the solo dining experience even more enjoyable.
As more Saudis explore the joys of solo dining, the trend reflects a broader shift in societal norms and individual lifestyles. Young people are carving out spaces for self-reflection and independence, challenging traditional perceptions about social activities. The popularity of solo dining represents a growing acceptance of self-care and personal freedom in Saudi Arabia, where dining alone is no longer seen as a solitary act but rather as a celebration of individuality.
Solo dining is more than just a meal, it is an experience that allows you to connect with yourself in a way that is both empowering and refreshing.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Noto’ Italian cuisine in Jeddah
- The menu at Noto is as extensive as it is impressive
Nestled in Tahlia street at Jeddah Walk, Noto offers an Italian dining experience inspired by the timeless beauty of Sicily.
Drawing design cues from baroque architecture and Sicilian village charm, this restaurant is decorated with chandeliers, elegantly dressed tables with white linens, and plush, comfortable sofas. The ambiance is perfect for fine dining, with an inviting, lively atmosphere enhanced by live entertainment.
Noto’s dedication to Sicilian culture extends to its logo, which features the symbolic Sicilian lion, and its menu, which presents a harmonious fusion of Greek, Latin, and Arabic influences.
Every dish celebrates the heart of Sicily with flavors that feel both classic and inventive, promising a sensory journey that delights every palate.
The menu at Noto is as extensive as it is impressive. From the antipasti selection, highlights include the ricciola, a delicate yellowtail sashimi with lime vinaigrette and candied tomatoes, and the signature melanzane alla parmigiana, which transforms eggplant into a rich, layered dish.
For something warm, the zuppa di porcini e funghi di stagione is a seasonal mushroom soup that feels both comforting and earthy. For cheese lovers, the burrata al tartufo with truffle adds a luxurious touch to the meal.
In true Italian fashion, the pasta menu is rich, featuring classics like spaghetti al pomodoro with fresh cherry tomatoes and basil, the lasagne alla bolognese, and paccheri al branzino e pomodorini, a seabass pasta paired with juicy cherry tomatoes.
Exclusive offerings like the fettucine al caviale, with caviar, add an elevated twist to traditional Italian fare. Risotto fans will be delighted by the creamy risotto ai funghi, made with seasonal mushrooms.
For main courses, the secondi selection impresses with standout dishes such as the tagliata di black angus, accompanied by a decadent parmesan potato espuma and black truffle jus, and the agnello, succulent lamb chops seasoned with herb oil and sun-dried tomatoes. Diners can also enjoy fiorentina, a perfectly roasted T-bone steak from the grandi piatti menu.
The pizza menu features artisanal options such as the pizza funghi with truffle and mushrooms and the calzone filled with turkey ham and mushroom, offering a taste of Italian comfort.
To end on a sweet note, desserts like the traditional tiramisu and the creamy panna cotta with red berry sauce are satisfying options.
Check @noto.ksa on Instagram for more details.
Clinique La Prairie CEO talks ‘personalization’ of luxury healthcare ahead of Saudi opening
DUBAI: Switzerland-based luxury healthcare resort Clinique La Prairie is set to open in Saudi Arabia’s Amaala wellness retreat next year, with CEO Simone Gibertoni telling Arab News “personalization is fundamental.”
With just 50 rooms, the healthcare resort will offer guests a holistic approach to health and wellness, combining evidence-based medicine with unique well-being, nutrition and movement plans, according to its website.
and movement plans, according to its website. (Supplied)
“If you want to be really personalized, you need to cater (for) a very small number of clients,” Gibertoni explained, adding: “Another very important point for me is always to underline the fact that our role is not just to give information, but to change people … intervention must be focused and must be very personalized.”
While the Swiss flagship boasts picturesque views and state of the art facilities, he insists: “The view of the lake is not enough, the nice food is not enough … there must be this idea that you feel better, you feel (like) a kind of new person and that’s why people are coming back.”
The Red Sea resort is not the first outside Switzerland; Clinique La Prairie Anji, on a tea plantation 180km west of Shanghai, China, opened its doors in 2024. Meanwhile, Dubai’s One & Only One Za’abeel hotel is home to a Clinique La Prairie Longevity Hub, billed as a day center rather than a resort-style experience.
When it comes to why the brand selected Saudi Arabia for such an investment, Gibertoni pointed to an alignment in healthcare philosophies.
“For such a big investment in Saudi, we are going to have only 50 rooms. In China, it’s another huge investment and we have only 29 rooms. It’s not easy to find the developer which is able to accept our philosophy and this is happening in Saudi Arabia,” he said.
The CEO also referred to long-term clients from the Gulf who have travelled to the European clinic for decades. The lure of a hub a little closer to home could be another reason for the brand’s latest venture.
Located on Saudi Arabia’s north-western coast, the Amaala resort will feature 30 brands, with Clinique La Prairie billed as one of the anchor offerings.
Last week, Gibertoni was in Dubai to announce the Longevity Fund, an endeavor to identify companies that “revolutionize the landscape of aging, health, and wellbeing.”
The fund will focus on driving science-based advancements in longevity under four banners — medical care, nutrition, movement and well-being.
Gibertoni explained: “Whenever there is a company with an innovation which is on the way to be ready for the market, this company always approaches us. So our question was ‘how can we be more impactful and not only introduce this technology to Clinique La Prairie … but can we also help this company to grow?”
Where We Are Going Today: Mexika restaurant in Riyadh
Mexika brings a taste of Mexico to the table with a menu balancing classic flavors with vibrant twists, making it an inviting spot for Mexican food lovers in Riyadh.
One standout dish is their burrito, which is not only generous in portion but also packed with tastes that satisfy. The filling is well seasoned and hearty, with fresh ingredients that harmonize.
Other options shine, too. Nachos come topped with sour cream, guacamole and a hint of jalapeno spice, and are available in various sizes costing from SR 8 ($2.13) to SR 19 ($5.06). Or try the quesadillas and empanadas, with choices from chicken to cheese to suit every palate.
For those craving something more substantial, the fajita selections and chicken lemon chimichanga are real highlights.
However, there is one small drawback; some dishes, including the burrito, tend to become soggy rather quickly. A crispier exterior would enhance the texture, maintaining that satisfying crunch.
The menu offers an exciting variety of food, from snackable samosas starting at SR 4 to substantial party boxes ideal for larger gatherings. With everything from light bites to full meals covered, Mexika is a versatile option for any dining occasion and impresses with its portion sizes, flavors and diversity.
For anyone looking to indulge their tastebuds with Mexican cuisine that has a Saudi twist, this place has a lot to offer. Just keep an eye on the texture of that burrito!
For more information, check their Instagram profile, @mexica.sa.
Where We Are Going Today: Dank Sandwich in Riyadh
Dank Sandwich in Riyadh has become a go-to destination for those craving filling sandwiches.
The menu offers a variety of options, with popular choices like the Philadelphia steak meal for SR39 ($10.40) which features tender steak and melted cheese, and the brisket meal known for its rich, smoky flavor.
For spice lovers, the dynamite meal brings a satisfying kick, while the crispy chicken meal delivers crunch and flavor.
Dank Sandwich also provides a variety of sides to enhance the experience, including classic French fries and sweet potato fries, which add balance to the hearty sandwiches.
For dessert, the choco marshmallow offers a sweet finish, and fresh juices like orange complement the bold flavors of the meals.
A minor drawback, however, is the pricing. While the meals are substantial and flavorful, they might appear a bit pricey for casual dining.
More affordable options could make Dank Sandwich even more appealing for regular visits.
Overall, Dank Sandwich in Riyadh impresses with generous portions and robust flavors, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort food with a twist.
For more information, check their Instagram @dank_ksa.
