How much food is lost in the Dutch meat sector? That question is central to a new monitor by VleesNL. In 2026, the sector will once again begin collecting data. The goal: to gain clearer insight into food residues and waste generated in 2025. The monitor is intended to help companies take a closer look at their processes. Where do losses occur? And where are opportunities to work more efficiently?
For the implementation, VleesNL is working together with Stichting Samen Tegen Voedselverspilling and Wageningen University & Research (WUR). Companies submit their data using a uniform method.
WUR then collects and analyzes all data. The results are processed anonymously. Individual company data cannot be traced back. This creates a shared picture of food residues and waste within the meat sector. It also makes it easier to track developments.
Food waste is an important topic within the broader effort toward sustainable production and the sector’s societal standing. Structural monitoring not only provides a more reliable picture of progress. It also clarifies where further improvements are possible.
Efficient use of raw materials plays a major role in this. Less waste often also means lower costs. For companies, the monitor can therefore provide practical insights. Participants also gain a clearer view of loss and residual streams within their own organization. At the same time, it becomes possible to compare performance with sector peers.
The results may also be valuable in other ways. Think of cost management or mapping the CO₂ footprint. The data can also be used for sustainability reporting. For example within the framework of CSRD and CSDDD. The results of the monitor are expected in the summer or autumn of 2026.
Source: VleesNL
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