This study develops a framework to quantify mass flow and assess food loss and waste (FLW) across the U.S. food supply chain (FSC), covering 10 commodity groups and nine management pathways. The analysis, based on 2016 data, estimates a total FLW of 335.4 million metric tonnes. Most FLW was managed through water evaporation (19%), recycling (55%), and disposal via landfill, incineration, or wastewater treatment (23%). The consumption stage contributed the largest portion (57%) of disposed FLW, while manufacturing was the top contributor (61%) to FLW generation but also had the highest recycling rate.
Key findings indicate that highly demanded, perishable products comprise 67% of food waste. To address these issues, the study recommends enhancing infrastructure, providing incentives for early food donations, and improving FLW collection and recycling across the FSC. Additionally, increased consumer education and the promotion of circular economy principles could support more sustainable management of food resources and reduce waste. This framework aims to serve as a foundation for strategies targeting FLW reduction, recycling, and recovery in the U.S.