In South Korea, where the population is ageing rapidly, the majority of food bank users are senior citizens. Korea Foodbank distributes food parcels that take the specific needs and health status of these beneficiaries into account.
Korea Foodbank was set up in 1998 to address the country’s growing hunger problem. The organisation collects food and household items from businesses and individuals to support vulnerable groups on low incomes. These beneficiaries include senior citizens and people with disabilities, who often have limited access to nutritious or sufficient food.
In South Korea, where the population is ageing rapidly, the majority of food bank users are senior citizens. According to a study carried out in 2023 by the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs, around 40% of senior citizens suffer from malnutrition. Malnutrition has been identified as one of the main causes of health problems for vulnerable beneficiaries, causing weight loss, muscle wasting and reduced bone density.
To meet these challenges, Korea Foodbank distributes food with short expiry dates as well as personalised food parcels that are high in essential nutrients (protein and vitamins C and D, in particular). These packages take the specific needs and health status of beneficiaries into account (for example, those who have difficulty chewing or who suffer from diabetes).
The project thus aims to alleviate malnutrition in vulnerable groups, combat food insecurity and help improve the overall health of beneficiaries, while simultaneously addressing major social issues.
