Food waste calculator
Wasted food is wasted money — and the water, energy and land used to grow it. Enter a few details to see roughly what your household throws away each year, then get practical ways to waste less.
Why food waste costs more than you think
When food goes in the bin, you don't just lose the food — you lose the money you paid for it, plus the water, energy, land and labour used to grow, ship and store it. Globally, roughly a third of all food produced is wasted, and a large share of that happens in our own homes: forgotten leftovers, produce that wilts before we use it, bread that goes stale, and portions cooked too big.
The good news is that household food waste is one of the rare problems where the green choice and the cheap choice are exactly the same. Wasting less puts money straight back in your pocket while cutting the emissions tied to producing food you never eat.
How this calculator works
The calculator multiplies your weekly grocery spend by the share you estimate goes to waste, then scales it across the year. It's deliberately simple and transparent — there's no hidden data, just your own figures. The aim isn't precision to the penny; it's to make an invisible cost visible enough to act on.
Want a real number? Put a small caddy or bag by the bin for one week and add up what you throw out. Most people find the true figure higher than they'd guess — which is exactly what makes the easy wins so worthwhile.
Turn the number into savings
Pick one habit to start this week — meal planning is usually the highest-impact. Then layer in better storage, smarter shopping, and using up leftovers. Within a month or two you'll likely see the difference at the checkout.
- Plan three or four meals before each shop and buy to the list.
- Shop your fridge, freezer and cupboards first.
- Store fruit, veg, bread and herbs the way they last longest.
- Freeze anything you won't use in time.
- Hold a weekly "use it up" meal to clear the fridge.
Food waste FAQ
How much food does the average household waste?
Studies suggest households throw away a meaningful share of the food they buy — often roughly a quarter to a third by value once you count spoiled produce, leftovers and forgotten fridge items. The exact figure varies, but most people are surprised how much it adds up to over a year.
Is this calculator accurate?
It's a rough estimate based on the figures you enter, meant for guidance and motivation rather than precision. The most useful number is your own: track what you actually bin for a week or two for a clearer picture.
What's the fastest way to waste less food?
Plan a few meals before you shop, store food properly, understand date labels, and keep a "use it up" night each week to clear the fridge. These habits cut waste and save money immediately.
Does wasting less food really help the planet?
Yes. Food production uses huge amounts of water, land and energy, and food rotting in landfill releases methane. Cutting waste is one of the most effective everyday climate actions — and it saves you money at the same time.
Small habits, real savings
You've seen the number — now make one change this week. Start with meal planning and let the wins build from there.