In 2020 the Netherlands left about 2.8 million tonnes of food unused for human consumption, 161 kg per person. The MKBA by New Economy uses this national figure as context for the local network. The scale shows how much value is lost before food reaches a plate. Without a calculation, the social value of informal food initiatives stays invisible, while the cost of inaction keeps rising.
A social cost-benefit analysis values the network’s benefits against public spending and avoidable social costs. This is relevant for municipalities, city districts and organisations working on food security, poverty and public health.