The Monday after the Big Game is known for being a major “sick” day, with 16+ million people estimated to call in “sick” from work this year. So, this Monday, February 10, we’re inviting everyone, including those not going to work, to get to work fighting food waste by closing their laptop and opening the fridge. Simply put, we’re sick … of food waste.
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
Why is food waste a problem?
Wasting food is not only a social and humanitarian issue—it’s also an environmental one. Wasted food also inadvertently means wasting the energy and water required for the growth, harvesting, transportation, and packaging of the food.
What are the four types of food waste?
They are by-product food waste, expired products, leftovers, and bakery and packaged food waste.
How can we stop food waste?
One of the biggest ways to reduce food waste is to plan, serve, and cook the right portions for the number of people you’re serving.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 10 | Monday |
| 2026 | February 9 | Monday |
| 2027 | February 15 | Monday |
| 2028 | February 14 | Monday |
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