Islam's Stance on Food Wastage: A Sinful Act of Extravagance

In Islam, the seemingly minor act of leaving leftover food on a plate or discarding disliked dishes is viewed as a significant issue, potentially leading to extravagance and a loss of gratitude for divine blessings. This perspective elevates the common practice of wasting food into a matter of religious concern.

The Quran explicitly warns against such behavior, stating in Surah Al-Isra (17:26-27): "And give the relative his due, and the needy and the traveler, and do not spend wastefully in adoption. Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and the devil is to his Lord ungrateful." This strong condemnation equates those who waste resources with the companions of Satan, highlighting the gravity with which Islam views extravagance.

Scholars like Imam Syafi'i define extravagance (tabdzir) as spending or using wealth inappropriately. Furthermore, Islam teaches not only to avoid waste but also to cultivate a higher level of etiquette regarding food. Prophet Muhammad, for instance, never criticized food presented to him; he would eat it if he liked it or leave it without disdain if he did not.

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And give the relative his due, and the needy and the traveler, and do not spend wastefully in adoption. Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and the devil is to his Lord ungrateful.