Consumer confusion exacerbates the issue. In the US, 6 per cent of waste – 3 billion pounds worth $7 billion – stems from misreading labels like “Sell by” (for retailers) or “Best if used by” (peak quality), prompting premature discards of safe food.
While a single monthly reading above 6 per cent does not constitute a formal policy failure, the persistent upward trajectory since early 2026 leaves monetary authorities with little room to manoeuvre.
The authors stress that individual knowledge alone is insufficient. Food environments – marketing, pricing, availability and access – must support healthier choices.
While a single monthly reading above 6 per cent does not constitute a formal policy failure, the persistent upward trajectory since early 2026 leaves monetary authorities with little room to manoeuvre.