How much global food waste is produced each year?

Each year, approximately 1.3 billion metric tons of food are wasted globally. This statistic highlights the vast amount of food that is not consumed and instead is lost, either through spoilage, mismanagement, or lack of proper distribution. Understanding the scale of this issue is crucial for addressing food security, environmental sustainability, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with food waste. The figure of 1.3 billion metric tons encapsulates the urgent need for improved practices in food production, distribution, and consumption, emphasizing the importance of initiatives aimed at reducing waste in every segment of the food supply chain.