19.4 Million Edible Food Items Wasted Every Week in UK Households
New Data from Too Good To Go Highlights Scale of Avoidable Waste
Food-saving platform Too Good To Go has released research showing that households across the UK are discarding an estimated 19.4 million edible food items every week. A key driver behind this avoidable waste is ongoing confusion around best before dates, which indicate product quality rather than safety.
The study found that 29% of UK residents admit to throwing food away solely because it has reached its best before date, without checking whether it is still suitable for consumption. A further 25% said they routinely discard food once the label date passes, even when it may still be perfectly edible.
Generational Differences in Waste Patterns
The research also identified clear generational trends.
Those aged 16 – 24 waste the most edible food, discarding an average of three items per week. In comparison, individuals aged 55 and over report wasting around one item per week.
- A greater level of confidence in food assessment and storage appears to play a role.
- 55% of over-55s feel comfortable keeping food past its best before date and using personal judgement.
- Only 28% of 16 – 24-year-olds report the same level of confidence.
The study suggests that uncertainty over how to store food correctly contributes to this divide, with 70% of older adults feeling confident in storage knowledge, compared to 48% among younger respondents.
Household Structure Also Influences Waste
Living arrangements were shown to affect waste levels as well.
People living with friends reported discarding an average of three edible items per week, while those living alone throw away around one item per week. Shared households often experience less structured food ownership and more forgotten food, contributing to higher wastage.
Why the Findings Matter
While the report focuses on household behaviour, the issue of avoidable food waste also affects workplaces, hospitality, education, care settings and commercial environments. Under the Simpler Recycling framework being rolled out across England, separating food waste from general waste is becoming a standard legal requirement. Businesses must be able to demonstrate that food waste is handled correctly, stored appropriately, and collected by a licensed waste service provider.
How Affordable Waste Management Supports Responsible Food Waste Handling
At Affordable Waste Management, we help organisations meet these obligations by arranging registered food waste collection services, providing the necessary containers, and ensuring waste is transferred and processed in line with current legislation. Our role is to make compliance straightforward, clear and cost-effective – without adding unnecessary complexity or hidden charges.
Managing food waste properly isn’t simply a matter of avoiding fines. It improves workplace hygiene, reduces odours, supports sustainability targets, and avoids sending recoverable materials to landfill. And with regulations tightening, having the right systems in place is now more important than ever.
Looking to improve how your organisation handles food waste?
We can help you put the right collection system in place, ensure full compliance with current legislation, and keep the process clear and cost-effective.
Get a no-obligation quote or speak with our team to discuss your requirements.