Consumers who are conscious of their nutrition exhibit behaviours that significantly reduce food waste, even more so than those whose behaviour is driven by sustainability concerns, according to new research from the University of Adelaide.
Researchers surveyed 1030 Australians and found that nutrition-conscious consumers had many waste-reducing habits and, as a result, generate less food waste.
“People who prioritise healthy eating tend to plan meals and avoid over-purchasing – behaviours that significantly reduce food waste,” says lead author, Dr Trang Thi Thu Nguyen, from the University of Adelaide’s Centre for Global Food and Resources, School of Economics and Public Policy.
“The idea that sustainability-conscious consumers would also waste less food seems logical. After all, they actively seek out ethical and environmentally friendly products.
However, those who prioritise sustainability often focus on choosing environmentally friendly products but do not necessarily translate that concern into waste-reducing behaviours.”
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