How much meat is wasted each year?

The amount of meat wasted each year varies depending on the source and methodology used for estimation. Estimates range from 20% to 50% of the total meat produced globally. Here are a few estimates from reputable sources:

1. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO): According to the FAO, approximately one-third of all food produced globally, including meat, is wasted annually. This amounts to roughly 1.3 billion tons of food per year, of which meat constitutes a significant portion.

2. The World Resources Institute (WRI): The WRI estimates that around 30% of all food produced for human consumption is wasted, with meat accounting for a substantial share. Based on their analysis, an estimated 222 million tons of meat are wasted annually, contributing significantly to global food waste.

3. The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC): The NRDC estimates that in the United States alone, as much as 50% of all meat produced is wasted. This includes meat that is discarded at various stages of the supply chain, such as during production, processing, distribution, and consumption.

It's important to note that these estimates are based on various methodologies and may vary depending on factors such as the region, agricultural practices, food consumption habits, and data collection methods. However, they all indicate a substantial amount of meat waste occurring annually, highlighting the need for improved efficiency, sustainable practices, and consumer awareness to reduce meat waste and its associated environmental and economic impacts.