Food waste has been a pet peeve of mine for many years, and it appears that I am not alone! According to a recent survey, Americans feel guiltier about wasting food than any other environment-related (mis)behavior (e.g., wasting water, leaving on the lights, forgetting to bring reusable bags to the store).
http://www.wehatetowaste.com/leave-the-gun-take-the-cannoli-and-the-bread-basket/