Looking for food waste facts that show why reducing waste really matters? The scale of global food waste is bigger than most people realise.
From greenhouse gas emissions to household costs, food waste statistics reveal just how much impact wasted food has on the planet – and on our wallets.
Here are eight eye-opening food waste facts that explain why it’s so important to reduce food waste.
1. One third of all food produced globally is wasted
More than one third of all food produced worldwide never gets eaten.
That means the land, water, energy and labour used to produce it are also wasted. (Source)
2. Wasted food could help end hunger
All one billion of the world’s hungry people could be fed with less than a quarter of the food wasted by the US, the UK and Europe combined. (Source)
3. Food waste uses 25% of the world’s freshwater
A quarter of the world’s freshwater supply is used to grow food that is never consumed. (Source)
4. Food waste would be the third largest emitter in the world (as a country)
If food waste were a country, it would be the third largest emitter of greenhouse gases after China and the USA. (Source)
The greenhouse gas emissions from just 1kg of food waste can be significant – adding up quickly across households and supply chains.
5. Food waste costs the average UK family £1000 per year
Wasting food at home isn’t just bad for the planet – it’s expensive.
The average UK family of four throws away around £1000 worth of food every year. Reducing food waste is one of the simplest ways to save money at home. (Source)
6. UK households waste around 6 million tonnes of food every year
In 2022, UK households wasted approximately 6.0 million tonnes of food and drink – around 88kg per person. (Source)
The good news about food waste
While the statistics are serious, there’s encouraging news.
Reducing food waste is ranked as one of the most effective climate solutions – even above electric cars, solar power and plant-based diets.
In other words, cutting food waste is one of the most powerful actions individuals can take.
Why these food waste facts matter
Food waste contributes to climate change, water waste and rising household costs. But it’s also one of the most solvable environmental challenges.
Simple actions like meal planning, organising your fridge and sharing surplus food locally can dramatically reduce food waste.
Small habits, repeated consistently, add up.
Share more, waste less
At Olio, we believe the solution starts in our homes and communities.
By sharing surplus food instead of throwing it away, you can reduce food waste, save money and help someone nearby at the same time.
Food waste facts can feel overwhelming – but action is empowering.
Start small. Share more. Waste less.