80% of Irish consumers unaware of food waste levels

The research also shows strong consumer support for action on food waste

Households matter: 26% of national food waste comes from homes, yet most people don’t realise their impact

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Read More: EPA Too Good To Go

While many Irish adults underestimate the scale of food waste, new research from Too Good To Go shows there is strong public interest in taking action.

The survey found that most Irish adults underestimate how much food is wasted in Ireland every day, with only one in five aware of the full scale.

Despite €3.2 million of food being discarded daily, many respondents were unaware of the true figure.

EPA

According to the EPA* Irish households generated over 221,000 tonnes of food waste in 2023, accounting for 26% of the national total.

While awareness remains low, consumer attitudes suggest a clear appetite for change.

The research also shows strong consumer support for action on food waste.

Nearly seven in ten people (68%) say they are more likely to support businesses that take active steps to reduce waste, demonstrating a clear appetite for sustainable practices and responsible business behaviour.

Chelsea Kerr, managing director, UK & Ireland at Too Good To Go, said: “Across Ireland, there’s a huge opportunity to prevent food waste – and it’s great to see that consumers are ready to take action.

“Whether it’s making small changes at home, shifting habits at work, or choosing to support businesses that are actively saving surplus food, these everyday choices add up.

“Together, they can make a real, lasting difference.”

Machaela O’Leary, Sales UK & Ireland Key Account lead said: “We’re seeing first-hand across Ireland that saving food from going to waste doesn’t require big, complex changes, it starts with simple, practical actions.

“Businesses and consumers alike are increasingly embracing solutions that make it easier to prevent surplus food from going to waste.

“By working together and making waste reduction part of everyday habits, we can unlock a huge opportunity – not just for the environment, but for communities and the wider food system.”

Too Good To Go connects consumers with surplus food from shops and food businesses, providing a simple, practical way to reduce waste while offering great value.

The research shows that visible, actionable solutions are well-received by Irish consumers, giving businesses a way to make a real sustainability impact while engaging their customers.

Overall, the findings highlight a positive trend that while awareness of food waste levels is still growing, consumer intent and practical solutions show that meaningful change is achievable.

Read more: Irish shoppers save two million ‘Surprise Bags’ through Too Good To Go

© 2026, ShelfLife by Ryan Brennan

Read More: EPA Too Good To Go

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