In 2023, U.S. households and businesses wasted around 73.9 million tons of food—about 31% of the total food supply. This waste costs over $382 billion and contributes to 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, a figure nearly five times greater than that of aviation. Fortunately, a movement is emerging to transform this food waste into safe, nutritious products that you can buy at your local grocery store.
### What Is Upcycled Food?
Upcycled food refers to products made from ingredients that would otherwise go to waste. The Upcycled Food Association (UFA) defines it as food sourced from materials that aren’t typically used for human consumption, processed through verifiable supply chains, and beneficial to the environment.
Think of imperfect fruits, surplus produce, or leftover grains from beer brewing—these ingredients can still be delicious and nutritious. Instead of rotting away or being thrown out, they get a new life in upcycled food products.
### The Upcycled Certified Mark
The Upcycled Certified mark, introduced by Where Food Comes From, Inc. in 2021, is the only global certification for upcycled foods. As of 2024, 568 products carry this certification, reflecting a 17% growth from the previous year. Together, these products have diverted approximately 1.2 million tons of food waste—roughly equivalent to 248 million bags of groceries.
### Safety and Nutrition
Many shoppers wonder if upcycled food is safe. The answer is yes! These foods must meet the same FDA safety standards as any other food product. Upcycled ingredients often retain full nutritional value. For instance, vegetable skins, which are usually discarded, are packed with fiber and vitamins.
Research shows that consumers often view upcycled foods as more premium than regular offerings. A study highlighted that 51% of consumers are more inclined to purchase products with the Upcycled Certified mark.
### Where to Find Upcycled Products
You can now find upcycled foods in major retail stores like Target, Whole Foods, Walmart, and Kroger. Popular categories include snacks, pet foods, and beverages.
### Why It Matters
The case for upcycled foods is strong. According to UN data, if food waste were a country, it would rank among the top three global greenhouse gas emitters. By embracing upcycled products, we can lower emissions and lessen the pressure on land and water resources—28% of agricultural land and 21% of freshwater are used to produce food that ultimately gets wasted.
This shift is becoming a significant consumer trend. In 2021, Whole Foods identified upcycling as a top food trend. Kroger and other retailers are responding by offering more upcycled options.
By choosing upcycled foods, you’re making a positive impact. Each purchase helps reduce food waste and supports a more sustainable food system. So, next time you shop, look for the Upcycled Certified mark; it signifies a commitment to saving good food from going to waste.
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