Most Stolen Grocery Items by Country

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Most Stolen Grocery Items Around the World in 2025

Olive Oil – Spain and Greece

Olive oil continues to be a prized commodity in Mediterranean countries, with Spain and Greece reporting the highest theft rates. Its high value and cultural significance make it a favorite among shoplifters. Spain, in particular, sees frequent thefts of premium olive oils, often sold on the black market or used in upscale restaurants. Greece, renowned for its quality extra virgin olive oils, also reports significant thefts, with organized groups targeting specialty bottles.

Cheese – France, Canada, Italy, and Switzerland

Cheese tops the list in several European nations and Canada. French cheese, including varieties like Brie and Camembert, is highly sought after both domestically and abroad. Italy’s Parmesan and Switzerland’s luxury chocolates, often mistaken for cheese in theft reports, are targeted for their high resale value. In Canada, cheese thefts are often linked to organized theft rings stealing high-end artisanal products.

Packaged Meat – United Kingdom and Austria

In the UK and Austria, packaged meats such as ham, salami, and specialty cold cuts are commonly stolen items. These products are not only expensive but also have high demand in markets where they’re often resold. Shoplifters target grocery stores with weak security measures, especially during busy hours, to steal these perishable goods.

Fresh Meat – United States, South Africa, Argentina, and New Zealand

Meat remains a highly stolen item across several continents. In the U.S., supermarket thefts of beef, chicken, and pork are common, often linked to organized crime. South Africa and Argentina, renowned for their beef, report frequent meat thefts from farms and slaughterhouses. New Zealand’s high-quality lamb also makes it a target.

Spices – India and Sri Lanka

India and Sri Lanka, famous for their rich spice markets, grapple with spice thefts that impact local farmers and vendors. Spices like saffron, turmeric, and cardamom are often stolen due to their high value by weight, leading to significant economic losses for producers.

Alcohol – Nigeria, Russia, Argentina, and Kenya

Alcohol remains a significant theft item across several nations, especially in Nigeria, Russia, Argentina, and Kenya. Illicit markets value stolen liquor, which often involves organized theft rings. In Nigeria and Kenya, thefts are often fueled by the demand for alcohol in illegal bars or for smuggling.

Cigarettes – Ukraine, Egypt, and Israel

Nicotine products like cigarettes are a perennial target for theft worldwide. Ukraine, Egypt, and Israel have reported increased thefts, driven by the high cost of cigarettes and prevalent black markets. Criminal groups often target convenience stores for easy access.

Baby Formula – Australia and Malaysia

With high global demand and limited supply, baby formula thefts have surged, especially in Australia and Malaysia. Criminal syndicates steal these products to resell in black markets or smuggle abroad, leading to shortages in legitimate retail outlets.

Cosmetics – Japan, South Korea, and Iran

Luxury and popular cosmetic items are stolen consistently, with Japan and South Korea leading the charge. These goods fetch high resale prices, particularly luxury brands. Iran’s theft rings target imported cosmetics due to limited local production.

Canned Fish and Canned Goods – Portugal, Cambodia, and Solomon Islands

Canned fish and other preserved foods are frequently stolen in countries with high food insecurity or smuggling markets. Portugal and Cambodia, with significant fishing industries, report numerous theft incidents, mostly for resale in local or neighboring markets.

Chocolate and Confectionery – Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Switzerland

Sweet treats, especially high-end chocolates, are among the most stolen items in Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Switzerland. Organized groups target luxury chocolates due to quick turnover and high resale value.

Conclusion

The diversity of stolen grocery items worldwide highlights regional economic factors, cultural priorities, and supply chain vulnerabilities. Organized crime rings continue to raid high-value or easily resold products, leading to billions in losses annually. Stakeholders are urged to strengthen security measures and implement smarter inventory controls to combat this persistent issue.

Sources: Mashed, The Guardian, Retail Gazette, and various crime and theft reports from 2025.