Cheese and dairy: Stolen most frequently in France, Canada, Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, and Switzerland—countries renowned for their love of cheese and dairy culture.

Cosmetics: Frequently lifted in Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Iran, suggesting that personal care items are high-value, easily concealable, and frequently targeted.

Meat and packaged meat: The top stolen item in the USA, UK, Brazil, Argentina, Austria, South Africa, and New Zealand. High prices and essential status likely drive this trend.

Alcohol: Dominates theft statistics in Russia, Mexico, Poland, Vietnam, and Kenya, all regions where alcohol is both socially and economically significant.

Tobacco: The most shoplifted item in Ukraine, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, indicating that non-food items with addictive properties are often targeted.

Sweets and chocolate: Surprising no one, Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland—all nations with rich chocolate heritages—see high levels of candy theft.

Olives and Olive Oil: Central to Mediterranean diets, these are stolen most in Spain and Turkey.

Canned fish: Commonly lifted in Portugal and Indonesia, countries with strong fishing industries and seafood-based cuisines.

Coffee: A hot commodity in Colombia and Peru, both major coffee producers and consumers.

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The world’s most stolen grocery items revealed