Food waste is a significant issue in the United States, with certain items being discarded more frequently than others. The most commonly wasted foods include:
- Bread: Approximately 38% of all grain products, including bread, are wasted annually in the U.S. Earth.org
- Milk: Nearly 20% of the total milk produced is poured down the drain each year. Earth.org
- Potatoes: About 5.8 million potatoes are discarded annually. Earth.org
- Fruits and Vegetables: Items like apples, bananas, and lettuce are among the most wasted produce. For instance, 27% of survey respondents admitted to throwing away uneaten lettuce. EatingWell
- Cheese: Soft cheeses, in particular, are often wasted due to their perishable nature. Shapiroe
These waste patterns are influenced by factors such as over-purchasing, improper storage, confusion over expiration dates, and a lack of meal planning. Addressing these issues can help reduce food waste and its associated economic and environmental impacts.