Millions of loaves of bread are thrown away every day in Morocco, despite bread being one of the country’s most heavily subsidized food products, according to the Competition Council.
The council says the subsidy system designed to keep bread affordable is also encouraging waste by keeping prices artificially low and reducing consumers’ perception of its value.
As a result, households often buy more bread than they need, with large quantities ending up discarded, the council said.
Data from the National Federation of Bakery and Pastry Owners estimate that around 30 million units of bread are wasted daily, nearly a quarter of Morocco’s total daily production of between 110 million and 120 million units.
Consumer protection groups estimate the annual figure at around 11 billion units and are calling for a national law to combat food waste and promote more responsible consumption.
The problem extends beyond households, affecting the entire supply chain, the council said.
During production, up to 20 percent of grain is lost due to adverse weather, inadequate storage infrastructure, and reliance on traditional farming methods.
Storage and distribution represent additional weak points, with losses of between 5 and 7 percent in collection warehouses and about 5 percent during distribution. Some milling facilities also report higher losses due to outdated equipment and inefficient logistics.
Waste peaks at the consumer level. According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, between 32 percent and 34 percent of purchased bread is discarded in homes and restaurants.
Poor food management practices, excessive purchasing, and lack of awareness are key factors. Social customs also contribute, particularly during holidays and family celebrations, when bread is often overbought and discarded once it loses freshness.
The Competition Council warned that a significant portion of public subsidies is effectively being turned into waste, placing additional strain on the compensation fund and undermining support mechanisms intended to protect the most vulnerable households.
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