Food Waste in the United States: Study on the Role of Retailers and How to Act

Did you know that each year, the United States wastes nearly 80 million tons of food, representing about 33% of its total food supply? That’s not just a staggering number; it equates to approximately 1.8% of the U.S. GDP.

Retailers are at the heart of this challenge, facing pressure from consumers, regulators, and competitors alike. Smartway teams conducted a comprehensive study to understand the role of retailers in tackling food waste and to identify opportunities for positive change in this massive market

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Why download this study?

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Since 2012, Smartway has worked alongside retailers worldwide to combat food waste and improve efficiency.

In this U.S.-focused study, we explore the key factors shaping the American retail industry’s fight against waste and provide actionable insights to help retailers turn loss into profit.

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What’s inside?

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  • Insights into American food culture and its link to waste
  • Analysis of the U.S. retail industry and its role in food waste
  • Consumer behavior and expectations around sustainability
  • Regulatory landscape and upcoming changes
  • Practical strategies for retailers to improve sustainability and profitabiliy
  • The essential role of AI and digital tools in reducing waste

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Did you know?

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  • 87% of Americans want retailers to offer more discounts on products nearing their expiration dates.
  • Over 75% of surplus food in grocery stores comes from perishable items like fruits, vegetables, and dairy.
  • AI-powered tools significantly reduce waste, streamline operations, and increase customer satisfaction.

Act now to turn food waste into opportunity for your stores.

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