Water Footprint of Food Calculator
Every food you eat has a hidden water cost - the water used to grow, process, and transport it. A single burger can require over 2,000 litres of water! This calculator uses data from the Water Footprint Network to reveal the water footprint of your meal. Add ingredients to see the total water needed and discover which foods have the biggest impact.
Protein
Dairy
Grains
Produce
Drinks
Other
How We Calculate This
Water footprint = sum of (grams × litres_per_kg / 1000) for each ingredient. Data from Water Footprint Network global averages: beef 15,500 L/kg, chicken 4,300 L/kg, cheese 5,000 L/kg, rice 2,500 L/kg, vegetables 300 L/kg, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does beef use so much water?
Beef cattle require years of feed (grain, grass) before slaughter, and each kg of feed requires water to grow. The water footprint includes all water used throughout the supply chain - about 15,500 litres per kg of beef.
What is a water footprint?
A water footprint measures the total freshwater used to produce something, including water for growing crops, raising animals, processing, and manufacturing. It's often called "virtual water" or "hidden water".
Where does this data come from?
Data is based on global averages from the Water Footprint Network, which has extensively studied water use in agriculture. Actual values vary by region, farming practices, and climate.
How can I reduce my water footprint?
The biggest impact comes from reducing meat (especially beef) and dairy consumption. Eating more vegetables, reducing food waste, and choosing locally-grown produce also helps reduce water usage.
Related Calculators
You might also find these calculators helpful: Ecological Footprint Calculator, and Calorie Calculator.
Water footprint values are global averages and vary significantly by region, farming method, and climate. Use for awareness purposes.