Sustainability vs nutrition-consciousness: which drives food waste more
New research from the University of Adelaide comparing food waste between consumers focused on environmental concerns and those prioritizing nutrition and health has uncovered an interesting finding. Surprisingly, the study found that nutrition-conscious individuals waste less food than their environmentally motivated counterparts. Although it seems logical that eco-minded consumers would be better at minimizing waste, the research showed that making environmentally friendly purchasing choices doesn’t necessarily lead to waste-reducing behaviours. The survey of 1,030 adults revealed that prioritizing healthy eating is strongly linked to better meal planning and less over-purchasing—both factors that cut down on food waste. Researchers suggest that future food waste campaigns should connect waste reduction with personal health benefits rather than focusing solely on environmental concerns. Highlighting the financial and nutritional advantages of reducing food waste could prove more effective, especially during a cost-of-living crisis. Ultimately, managing, preparing, and consuming food wisely is key to building a healthier, more sustainable food system. Learn more about this study.
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