Reducing consumer food waste
Did you know that in the European Union alone, over 58 million tonnes of food are wasted annually? That's approximately 131 kg per inhabitant, with a market value estimated at 132 billion euro.
Food waste is a problem for our society. Around 10% of food made available to EU consumers may be wasted. At the same time, over 37 million people in the EU cannot afford a quality meal every second day. Wasting food also puts unnecessary burden on the environment and on limited natural resources, such as land and water use.
Cristina Lisetchi, policy officer, European Commission
Households generated more than half of the total food waste (54% or 70kg per inhabitant) in the EU in 2021.
Some 16% is wasted in restaurants and other eateries, and retail outlets like supermarkets and grocery shops. The rest is wasted during production and manufacturing.
The EU has committed to help halve global food waste at the retail and consumer level by 2030 and reduce food losses along the food production and supply chains.
You can make a difference by reducing your food waste and encouraging others to do the same.
How to reduce food waste
Everyone has a role to play in preventing and reducing food waste. This includes farmers, food manufacturers, retailers, hospitality sector workers, and ultimately, consumers like you.
At home, individuals can take simple yet effective measures such as planning meals, using leftovers, properly storing fresh and cooked food, and making the distinction between the science-based “use by” and “best before” dates indicated on the date food labels.
Similarly, mindful shopping habits, such as writing a shopping list and buying only what is needed, can help minimise food waste at the shops or market.
You can also make food donations to the needy through retail outlets and charities.
Together we can pave the way for a more sustainable future.
