33 Shocking Global and National Food Waste Statistics (2025)

Did you know nearly 30% of the food produced globally is never eaten? This staggering food waste statistic highlights the alarming issue of uneaten food — a problem with environmental, economic and social consequences. 

Food waste occurs from production to consumption and substantially impacts our planet and communities.

Understanding the scope and causes of food waste is crucial for developing effective strategies to reduce its impact. By examining food waste in America and globally, we can gain insights into the magnitude of this problem.

Food waste statistics in the U.S.

Despite food production and distribution advancements, food waste remains a significant issue in the United States. Here’s a closer look at food waste statistics in the U.S.

1. It’s estimated that Americans waste over 30% of their food each year. (Feeding America)
2. In America, food waste costs consumers over $161 billion annually. (Feeding America)
3. Food loss wastes 21%-33% of water used on U.S. farms. (Feeding America)
4. In the U.S., nearly one-quarter of municipal solid waste is food waste. (Earth)
5. Over 80% of Americans waste perfectly edible food because of confusion about expiration dates. (Recycle Track Systems)
6. One in six Americans faces food insecurity, yet millions of pounds of food are wasted each year. (Feeding America)
7. Food waste in U.S. restaurants amounts to an estimated 175 billion pounds annually. (Feeding America)
8. U.S. grocery stores waste about 20 billion pounds of food yearly. (USDA)
9. Agricultural food waste makes up about 30% of total food waste in the U.S. (USDA)
10. Each year, the average American family of four loses $1,500 to uneaten food. (USDA)

Global food waste statistics

Food waste is an ongoing issue worldwide, affecting countries at all levels of development. Understanding food waste distribution across different regions and countries is necessary to address this global challenge. Let’s review how food waste is impacting communities worldwide.

11. A fifth of all food produced is lost or wasted worldwide, which equals 1 billion meals wasted every day. (WFP)
12. Food loss and waste cost the global economy approximately $1 trillion annually. (WFP)
13. Households, food service and retail account for 19% of the total global food waste. (UN)
14. In 2022, 1.05 billion tons of food were wasted worldwide. (UN)
15. Over 13% of food produced globally is lost between harvest and retail. (UN)

Environmental food waste statistics

Food waste has a significant and detrimental impact on the environment. Whether it’s climate change through the release of greenhouse gases or exacerbating water scarcity due to the resources required for food production, it’s contributing to environmental decline. Here’s a look at how the environment is impacted.

16. Food waste produces nearly 10% of global greenhouse gases. (United Nations Environment Programme)
17. About 1.4 billion hectares of land are used to grow food that is wasted. One hectare is equivalent to nearly 2.5 acres. (Food and Agriculture Organization)
18. Food waste accounts for approximately 24.1% of all municipal solid waste in the U.S. (Earth.org)
19. When food waste decomposes in landfills under anaerobic conditions, it produces methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. One pound of food waste produces nearly four pounds of methane. (EPA)
20. Food waste in landfills can contaminate groundwater by leaching nutrients and contaminants, which pollute water sources. (EPA)
21. Hotter countries often experience greater food waste due to difficulties in preserving, preparing and distributing food. (WFP)
22. The emissions caused by food waste and loss can be as high as 10% of the global total, surpassing those of the aviation sector. (WFP)
23. Food waste accounts for 11% of global greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to the emissions of 37 million cars. (RTS)
24. Food waste contributes to 3.3 gigatons of CO₂ equivalent in emissions every year. (Greenly)

Economic impact on food waste

Food waste has a substantial economic impact, affecting both businesses and consumers. Financial losses arise from wasted food, increased disposal costs and reduced revenue. The following statistics highlight the economic consequences of food waste.

25. In 2010, the value of wasted food was estimated to be $161 billion. (FDA)
26. The U.S. has a wasted food approximate value of $218 billion, which equals 130 billion meals. (RTS)
27. Food waste costs American households an average of $1,600 annually, leading to an annual cost of over $408 billion. (RTS)
28. The total food waste and loss cost approximately $1 trillion for the global economy. (WFP)
29. Food waste reduction can bring businesses financial benefits, including savings on food purchases, waste disposal fees and tax payments. (Greenly)

Social implications of food waste

Food waste has significant social implications, particularly concerning hunger, inequality and consumer behavior. Additionally, food waste contributes to consumer behavior, such as overbuying and impulsive purchasing. The following statistics shed light on the social consequences of food waste.

30. Americans frequently overestimate their food needs, leading to excessive purchases. (RTS)
31. Many people underutilize leftovers and toss food scraps that could still be used. (RTS)
32. While 41% of people stated they never waste extra food, 16% admitted throwing it away weekly. (Statista)
33.  In 2022, 25% of men admitted they throw extra food into the trash once or twice a week, compared to 29% of females who do the same. (Statista)

How to reduce food waste

Ready to make a difference? Reducing food waste is easier than you might think. With a few simple changes, you can help save money, protect the environment and support a more sustainable food system. Let’s dive into some practical tips.

• Meal planning: List out the meals for the week and plan the exact ingredients you need to reduce food waste. You can always repurpose leftovers instead of wasting food.
• Smart shopping: Create a grocery shopping list to avoid buying items on impulse. You can also order your groceries online to reduce spontaneous purchases.
• Portion control: Use a serving size calculator to accurately calculate how much food you and your family need. Buying the amount of food you need will reduce food waste.
• Proper storage: Store items at the appropriate temperature and humidity to prolong their shelf life. Use airtight containers to prevent food from drying out, becoming contaminated or absorbing odors.
• Food labeling: Label perishable items with the date of purchase to track their freshness. Use the “first in, first out” (FIFO) method to ensure older items are consumed before newer ones.
• Composting: Composting organic waste reduces landfill waste, creates nutrient-rich soil and helps improve soil health. Set up a compost bin or pile, add a variety of organic materials and maintain the correct moisture and temperature levels.
• Freezing and preserving: Learn techniques like canning, freezing and dehydrating to preserve food and extend its shelf life. Properly freeze meals in airtight containers or bags to enjoy them later.

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Reduce food waste with Instacart

Now that you’re more familiar with food waste statistics, it’s time to take meaningful steps to reduce its negative effects. Reducing food waste can have a positive impact on the environment and economy. Implementing strategies like meal planning, proper storage and composting can play a crucial role.

Ready to start reducing food waste in your community? Shop through Instacart to meal plan and reduce overbuying. You can shop for all the ingredients you need for the week and receive them at your door. We can work together to create a more sustainable food system.

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