This article is a continuation of the detailed overview we did of the top food-wasting countries. If you want more insights into the world’s food wastage patterns and effects, read 20 Countries That Waste the Most Food.
5. United States Of America
Tons of Household Food Waste per Year: 19.3 million
According to Feeding America, 40% of all food in the USA is wasted, amounting to a staggering $408 billion per year. This waste equates to almost 130 billion meals and is influenced by various factors across the food supply chain. For example, the abundance of food and the prevalence of large portion sizes, particularly in the restaurant industry, contribute to significant waste at the consumer level.
4. Indonesia
Tons of Household Food Waste per Year: 20.93 million
Reports say that food wastage in Indonesia costs it $13-$32 billion annually, nearly 2% of the country’s GDP. In per capita terms, Indonesia’s food waste stands at around 77 kg. This loss is majorly attributable to the lack of access to modern farming technology and efficient post-harvest handling techniques, which result in losses before the food even reaches the market. The country’s archipelagic nature complicates transportation and causes further losses, particularly for perishable goods.
3. Nigeria
Tons of Household Food Waste per Year: 37.94 million
The presence of Nigeria among the top five food-wasting countries is not surprising. According to UNEP, levels of household food waste are almost similar for high-income, upper middle-income, and lower middle-income countries. As the average per capita household waste in Sub-Saharan Africa is 108 kgs, compared to the 74 kg average of the rest of the world, Nigeria ranks in the top three food-wasting countries. Smallholder farmers, who make up a significant portion of the agricultural sector, often lack access to modern farming techniques and efficient storage facilities, leading to post-harvest losses.
2. India
Tons of Household Food Waste per Year: 68.7 million
India faces severe food wastage challenges stemming from inefficiencies across the food supply chain. The country’s per capita food wastage stands at 50 kgs, totaling 68.7 million per annum and accounting for 40% of its total food production. Despite such extensive food wastage, the UN reports that over 200 million Indians remain undernourished. Notably, the Indian government, in collaboration with various NGOs, is working to address these issues through initiatives to improve agricultural practices to enhance supply chain efficiency.
1. China
Tons of Household Food Waste per Year: 91.6 million
China wastes the most food per household, almost 6% of its total production. As the country’s middle class expands, there is an increasing demand for various foods, often resulting in over-purchasing and wastage. Inefficient supply chain management also plays a role in this food wastage, as the journey from farm to fork is riddled with logistical challenges. The Chinese government has acknowledged the issue and is implementing measures to reduce food wastage, including public awareness campaigns and technological interventions to improve agricultural practices.
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