Food loss and waste (FLW) in the tomato supply chain (SC) remains a pressing global concern, yet comprehensive scientific information on its extent, impacts, contributory factors, and measurement methodologies is limited. The absence of universally accepted definitions for FLW along with different terminologies and measurement approaches, and the dispersion of the existing knowledge on FLW across various hotspots, complicates the efforts to grasp the entire supply chain.

This systematic review, conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, aims to offer an interdisciplinary synthesis of existing knowledge on global FLW in the tomato supply chain. The review compiles statistics on the magnitudes of FLW, assesses methods employed for FLW evaluation, and explores the primary causes of these losses. The review screened multiple databases and identified 42 relevant studies, revealing a notable concentration of research in developing nations, particularly in African and Asian countries. Of the selected papers, the majority (54.5%) have employed a quantitative approach, emphasizing a significant focus on quantifying the losses. The quantification primarily delves into the fundamental stages of the SC; farmers, wholesalers, retailers, collectors, supermarkets, and consumers.