Potatoes—widely regarded as one of the most versatile and shelf-stable staple foods—are still being discarded at significant rates in U.S. households, according to new research from NetCredit.

The findings, based on a nationally representative survey of 2,000 U.S. consumers, indicate that 20.7% of purchased potatoes are thrown away on average, placing them among the most wasted staple food categories.

The data highlights a broader issue affecting both perishable and longer-lasting food products. While items such as bread (22.7%), lettuce (22.6%), and milk (22.4%) rank among the most discarded foods, potatoes—typically associated with longer shelf life—are not immune to household waste patterns. Overall, U.S. consumers report discarding an average of 19% of the food they purchase annually, with younger demographics contributing disproportionately to waste levels. Generation Z respondents, for example, reported throwing away 31% of their food, significantly above the national average. The study also points to widespread misunderstanding of food labeling as a contributing factor. According to the research, 73% of Americans incorrectly believe that date labels indicate when food should be discarded, rather than when it may begin to lose optimal quality.

This confusion appears to play a role in the disposal of staple foods, including potatoes, which may still be safe to consume despite cosmetic changes such as sprouting or minor spoilage when handled properly.

Beyond consumer behavior, the scale of food waste carries significant economic implications. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that Americans discard an average of USD 728 worth of edible food per person each year, underscoring the financial impact of inefficiencies at household level.

With Stop Food Waste Day approaching on April 29, the findings provide a timely snapshot of consumption habits and suggest that reducing waste is not solely a matter of managing highly perishable products, but also of improving awareness and handling of staple foods such as potatoes.

Source: NetCredit study – How Much Food Do Americans Waste Every Year?