A critical review on food loss and waste quantification approaches: Is there a need to develop alternatives beyond the currently widespread pathways?

• To date, no standard methodology agreed upon to quantify food loss and waste (FLW). Most available studies have concentrated in Europe. Uncertainty opacity FLW quantification assessment reports has been observed. Essential elements of quantification, such as non-edible food, are being omitted. Excessive focus on consumer responsibility compared other actors throughout the chain. In a context increasing concern regarding (FLW) generation, different attempts made standardize methodologies. On one hand, an important number small-scale published that constitute direct measurement FAO Food Balance Sheets, which aggregate some prior studies, provides indirect metric applied using coefficients numerous food-related studies. However, FLW. This study performs 237 field, aiming identify existing methodologies, if there is need developing alternative paths. Firstly, descriptive review was performed. Secondly, critical point views presented. For this, voices scientific literature were retrieved, highlight high level uncertainty certain degree most widespread reports. this line, essential Moreover, excessively placed role consumer, played by agribusiness large distribution chains.