Aquatic food loss and waste rate in the United States is half of earlier estimates

By:
David C. Love, Frank Asche, Jillian Fry, Ly Nguyen, Jessica Gephart, Taryn M. Garlock, Lekelia D. Jenkins, James L. Anderson, Mark Brown, Silvio Viglia, Elizabeth M. Nussbaumer, Roni Neff
Date:
2024
Resource type:
Blogs/news/opinion
Link:

This study re-evaluates the rate of food loss and waste (FLW) specific to aquatic foods in the U.S., the world’s largest aquatic food importer. Utilizing primary and secondary data with life cycle analysis, the research reveals that total aquatic FLW is around 22.7%—significantly lower (43–55%) than previous estimates. The study identifies that FLW rates vary widely across species, production methods, origins, and supply chain stages, emphasizing the need for a detailed, disaggregated approach.

Key findings indicate that production losses from imported aquatic foods constitute over a quarter of total FLW. Reducing these losses will require coordinated multinational efforts across the supply chain. Recommendations include innovations, government incentives, policy changes, and improved infrastructure, with a focus on equity in aquatic food systems. This research informs targeted interventions to enhance sustainability within the U.S. aquatic food supply chain.