US to Waste 267 Million Meals This Thanksgiving, Says ReFED
About 320 million pounds of food are projected to be wasted this Thanksgiving in the US, according to the food systems think tank ReFED. This figure marks an increase from 316 million pounds in 2024.
The wasted food represents an estimated $550 million in retail value and equates to roughly 267 million meals that could have been provided to people in need.
Context of Food Waste Amid Economic Challenges
These figures come against a backdrop of ongoing food insecurity and rising prices in the country, placing strain on consumers and food producers alike. As of September 2025, food costs are 18.2% higher than in January 2022.
Complicating the situation is uncertainty around the SNAP (food stamps) program. Despite federal judges ordering the administration to continue SNAP payments using emergency funds, the government shutdown threatens delays in aid reaching millions of recipients.
Consumer Food Waste and Supply Chain Inefficiencies
ReFED’s research focuses primarily on food waste occurring in consumers' homes. The rise in food waste during a time of inflated food prices highlights inefficiencies throughout the supply chain, from overproduction to consumer habits, and carries significant environmental and economic costs.
Key Holiday Food Waste Statistics
- 40% of total holiday food waste comes from turkey
- 12% of hosts admit they will not manage leftovers
- 50% of people are unconcerned about food waste
- 45% plan to send guests home with leftover food
Consumer habits remain the primary driver of holiday food waste.
"About 320 million pounds of food are expected to go to waste this Thanksgiving—up from 316 million in 2024—according to food systems think tank ReFED."
"The amount of food going to waste this year represents some 267 million meals that could have gone to people in need."
"Food costs roughly 18.2% more as of September 2025 than it did in January 2022."
Author's summary: Despite rising food prices and ongoing hunger, millions of meals are wasted in the US this Thanksgiving, highlighting urgent supply chain and consumer behavior challenges.
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