The USDA refers to food insecurity as the lack of access to food that is sufficient and provides a healthy lifestyle (distinct from hunger) 

Food Insecurity 

A huge gap of food insecurity exists between first and third world nations. In first world nations, individuals are more likely to throw away at the consumption stage due to large portion sizes and over purchasing. The gap in food insecurity also might influence the decision of wasting food for many people. 

Food Waste Differences Between Nations 

CC refers to food that is purchased and consumed in group contexts. This includes buying food for parties, baby showers, weddings, etc. Individuals are more likely to buy excess food when buying for others in order to seem generous. 

Collaborative Consumption 

Waste that is generated from individuals and households. When examining data in first world countries, majority of food waste comes from the private sector. In third world countries, majority of food waste is generated prior to consumption. 
- 90% of food waste in Africa occurs pre-consumption 
- 50% of food waste in Europe comes from households 

Arizona State University

The loss of food that was fit for consumption. Occurs at multiple different sectors: 
- Food Producers 
- Processing 
- Wholesale/Retail 
- Hospitality 
- Private 

Food Waste 


  Parker, J., Umashankar, N., & Schleicher, M. (2019). How and Why the Collaborative Consumption of Food Leads to Overpurchasing, Overconsumption, and Waste. Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, 38(2), 154–171. https://doi.org/10.1177/0743915618823783


Why the Collaborative Consumption of Food Leads to Waste 

Private Sector 

The waste generated from the production stage (farmers, fishers, etc). Food will get thrown out in this stage for reasons including: 
- Farmers overplanting 
- Unharvested food due to weather damage 
- Practice of dumping 
- Pest infestations 

Food Producer Sector

Food that is wasted in packaging facilities. Includes waste generated when food is peeled, sliced, boiled, etc. 

Processing Sector 

Food that is lost in grocery stores. Food with cosmetic imperfections will not be picked by customers. Food that are misshapen or have blemishes will get thrown out. 

Wholesale/Retail Sector 

Food that is lost in restaurants, schools, hospitals, etc. Includes edible food wasted by customers. About 55% of edible leftovers are left at restaurants and 17% of meals are left uneaten. 

Hospitality Sector 

- 1/3 of food is wasted annually on average 
- Accounts for 6% of global emissions 
- Generates tons of plastic waste as well that is used for packaging
- Packaging takes years to biodegrade 
- Ends up in landfills rather than repurposing 

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