Work

Assessing food waste generation in the EU: a comparison of the food system material flow analysis model with Member State-reported data

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The European Union generates an estimated 58 million tonnes of food waste annually, with significant environmental, social, and economic implications. To address this issue, the EU has established a monitoring framework and introduced binding food waste reduction targets. This article presents the latest version of the Food System Material Flow Analysis (FS MFA) model, a detailed tool for estimating food waste generation in EU Member States, and compares FS MFA model estimates with Member State-reported data, revealing a good degree of similarity, despite differences in methodology and data sources. However, discrepancies highlight the need for model refinement and improved data collection and harmonization. The article recommends that Member States enhance data robustness through primary data collection, industry collaboration, and novel technologies like blockchain and mobile crowdsensing. An improved understanding of food waste generation and the development of effective measurement and reporting tools can support the reduction of food waste in line with Sustainable Development Goal 12.3, thus enabling the transition to a sustainable food system.

Source: Waste Management

DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2026.115928

Authors: Valeria De Laurentiis, Giulia Listorti

Institutions: Joint Research Centre, European Commission

Language: English

Topic: Food Waste Reduction and Sustainability

Subfield: Food Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Climate action

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,450