Progress on the Plate: 2026 ReFED U.S. Food Waste Report

ReFED | April 6, 2026

As affordability and food prices remain top of mind for Americans, a harsh reality remains true: in the United States, nearly one third of all food is lost or wasted as it makes its way from farm to fork. But as you’ll see throughout this report, progress on food waste is not only possible—it’s happening. Pulling together ReFED data analysis and modeling with external research and supported by narratives developed through our work with partners across the food waste ecosystem, this report is intended to help the food system understand food waste and what can be done to solve it.

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