The Stark Reality of Food Waste This Thanksgiving

As Thanksgiving approaches, the issue of food waste looms larger than ever. This year, an estimated 320 million pounds of food is expected to end up in landfills, slightly more than the 316 million pounds recorded in 2024, according to the food systems think tank ReFED. The toll on the economy is staggering, with lost food representing about $550 million in retail value.

Why Does This Matter?

The volume of food wasted translates to approximately 267 million meals that could have been provided to individuals facing hunger, illustrating an alarming disconnect amid persistent food insecurity and inflation in the U.S. Consumer food prices are up roughly 18.2% as of September 2025 compared to January 2022.

Given the uncertainty surrounding SNAP (food stamps), the urgency of addressing food waste becomes even clearer. Federal judges have mandated that the Trump administration continue SNAP payments with emergency funds; however, the ongoing government shutdown may disrupt benefits for millions.

ReFED’s research focuses on food waste in consumer households. Yet the increase in waste amidst rising food costs exposes inefficiencies throughout the supply chain, from overproduction to consumer behavior. This waste not only strains economic resources but also has significant environmental ramifications.

Thanksgiving Leftovers: The Numbers

• 🦃 40% of total holiday food waste comes from turkey
• 🚫 12% of hosts say they won’t manage leftovers
• 😐 50% aren’t concerned about waste
• 🍱 45% plan to send guests home with leftovers

Consumer habits play a significant role in these statistics. While rising food prices have initiated some behavioral changes, they are insufficient to offset ongoing waste trends. As ReFED noted in an interview with AgFunderNews, food is often discarded due to factors like “laziness, lack of storage, and holiday overwhelm” instead of thoughtful planning.

Practical Solutions to Reduce Waste

Cost Efficiency:

About 45% of consumers report making greater use of leftovers, while 24% are turning to frozen foods for extended shelf life.

Redistribution:

Packaged, nonperishable goods are prime candidates for donation to food pantries and rescue organizations, ensuring that surplus food reaches those in need.

Sustainability:

Municipal and community composting programs provide an effective downstream solution, as policymakers increasingly advocate for circular food systems.

As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, it’s crucial to recognize the implications of food waste. By taking simple, actionable steps, individuals and communities can make a significant impact in curbing waste and supporting those in need.