- Categories:
- Food & Beverage
- Tags:
- AwarenessFood
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Monday following Super Bowl Sunday
- Holiday emoji:
- ♻️
Sick of Food Waste Day arrives on the Monday following Super Bowl Sunday, urging us to tackle the massive issue of food waste. This day serves as a powerful reminder to close your laptop and open your fridge, transforming post-game leftovers and forgotten groceries into a mission. Join the movement to save food, money, and the planet.
History of Sick of Food Waste Day
Food waste impacts the environment, economy, and society. It contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, wastes valuable resources like water and energy, and worsens food insecurity. Sick of Food Waste Day was established to combat the crisis. Since the Monday following the Super Bowl has become notorious for being a major “sick” day, everyone is encouraged to “get sick” about this important issue while they’re at it.
It’s the perfect opportunity to turn your attention to the food in your kitchen, evaluate what’s in your fridge, and find creative ways to use any leftovers. By embracing sustainable practices, we can help reduce waste, conserve resources, and ensure food security for all.
So whether you’re nursing a hangover or a broken heart, or still basking in the euphoria of your team’s victory, take the opportunity to show just how truly sick you are of food waste as well.
Sick of Food Waste Day timeline
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establishes the Food Recovery Hierarchy to promote practices that reduce food waste.
The United Nations launches the Think.Eat.Save campaign to raise awareness about global food waste with the aim to reduce food loss and promote sustainable practices.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establish the U.S. Food Waste Challenge to encourage organizations, businesses, and communities to take action to reduce food waste.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) unveils its Reducing Wasted Food & Packaging Toolkit, which is designed to reduce food and packaging waste and save money.
Hellmann’s sponsors Sick of Food Waste Day, and the first observation takes place. Want to be a sponsor: learn how.
Sick of Food Waste Day FAQs
When is Sick of Food Waste Day?
In 2027, this important observance lands on Monday, February 15, sparking renewed efforts to reduce food loss and waste. The date shifts annually, always aligning with the Monday following the Super Bowl.
How much food is wasted in the U.S.?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that in 2022, about 82 million tons of food waste were generated in the U.S., with the majority ending up in landfills. This staggering amount underscores the urgent need for prevention and recovery efforts.
What are the biggest sources of food waste?
While consumers are responsible for a large portion of food waste, significant amounts also come from farms (due to market rejections or cosmetic standards), manufacturers (trimming and processing), and food service operations. Addressing these diverse sources requires a multi-faceted approach.
What is the environmental impact of food waste?
Beyond greenhouse gas emissions, food waste also strains natural resources. It accounts for a significant portion of freshwater consumption and agricultural land use, while also contributing to biodiversity loss and nutrient pollution in waterways.
How to Observe Sick of Food Waste Day
Host a potluck
Invite friends and family to bring any leftover food for a delicious potluck meal. This not only reduces waste but the variety of food will create a fun dining experience and introduce everyone to new dishes.
Educate yourself and others
Learn about the impact and extent of food waste and share that knowledge with others. Awareness is the first step toward making meaningful changes in our consumption habits.
Practice smart shopping
Create a shopping list of essential food items, taking portions into account, and stick to it. This can help prevent excess buying and ensure you only purchase what you will use.
5 Interesting Facts About Food Waste
The waste crisis
1.3 billion tons of food are wasted every year.
Global hunger
One-quarter of all wasted food could feed the 795 million hungry people globally.
Greenhouse gas emissions
Food loss/waste accounts for about 4.4 gigatons of yearly greenhouse gas emissions.
The biggest food wasters
Some of the biggest food-wasting countries include China, India, the United States, Brazil, and Germany.
Fruit and veg
Nearly 50% of all fruit and vegetables produced are wasted.
Why Sick of Food Waste Day is Important
It reduces the environmental impact
Food waste significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, which negatively impact the environment. Reducing waste helps conserve resources and protect the planet.
It raises awareness
Sick of Food Waste Day promotes awareness about the food waste crisis. It encourages individuals and communities to adopt sustainable practices and rethink their consumption habits.
It supports food security
Tackling the issue of food waste can help to redirect surplus food to those who need it. This can go a long way to alleviate hunger globally.
Sick of Food Waste Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | February 9 | Monday |
| 2027 | February 15 | Monday |
| 2028 | February 14 | Monday |
| 2029 | February 12 | Monday |
| 2030 | February 11 | Monday |
