Analysis of the Problem of Waste in Relation to Food Consumers

Abstract

The global demand for food continues to increase. It is estimated that about 680 million people lack food access and suffer from malnutrition. On the other hand, in the current market, access to food is common and ever easier. Nevertheless, we are increasingly faced with the phenomenon of waste, which refers to the deliberate disposal of food that is fit for human consumption. This article focuses on a very important problem related to food waste, in relation to one of the main groups affected, i.e., consumers. Indeed, it is their awareness and behavior in the context of food waste and in relation to the environment, as well as future approaches to social sustainability, that are of the utmost importance. The study was conducted on a group of 384 respondents—the research sample was differentiated by sex and place of residence. The method used in the study was the analysis of correspondence, using data from the proprietary questionnaire, conducted on a group of adults, i.e., consumers, purchasing food. Respondents were asked about the issues related to the fact of wasting food, the frequency of this phenomenon and the main reasons why they do it. It should be emphasized that the respondents notice the problem by admitting that food is wasted in their households for various reasons. Conclusions resulting from the conducted statistical analysis and the analysis of the literature indicate that the main reason for wastage is that the use-by date has passed. Here arises the question as to why this fact comes about; maybe we buy too much food, which means that we are not able to ensure that the deadline for its consumption is not passed.