US Will Waste 267 Million Meals This Thanksgiving: ReFED
About 320 million pounds of food are projected to be wasted this Thanksgiving, according to the food systems think tank ReFED, up from 316 million pounds in 2024. This wasted food has an estimated retail value of $550 million.
The volume of wasted food equates to roughly 267 million meals that could have helped people in need. These figures come amid ongoing food insecurity and rising prices in the US, indicating continued pressures on both consumers and producers.
Rising Food Costs and SNAP Concerns
Food prices have increased approximately 18.2% since January 2022. Adding to the strain, uncertainty over SNAP (food stamps) benefits could worsen the situation. Federal judges have ordered the administration to keep SNAP payments flowing through emergency funds, but the government shutdown may delay aid for millions.
Food Waste at Home and Supply Chain Issues
ReFED’s analysis focuses on food waste at the consumer level. However, the growth in waste amid high food prices highlights inefficiencies throughout the supply chain, from overproduction to consumer behaviors. This issue affects both the environment and the economy.
Key Consumer Habits During Thanksgiving
- 40% of total holiday food waste comes from turkey.
- 12% of hosts admit they do not manage leftovers.
- Half of consumers are not concerned about food waste.
- 45% plan to send guests home with leftovers.
“The ongoing government shutdown threatens to delay disbursements for millions.” — ReFED
Consumer behavior remains the primary cause of food waste during the holidays.
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