Domestic food waste, gap in times of crisis

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to identify the main causes of food waste in the phase of domestic consumption, possible solutions and areas of interest, as well as to highlight the measures that consumers have already taken or to be put in place to counter models of unsustainable consumption. The survey involved a representative sample of 500 individuals. Data analysis was conducted in three steps: an analysis of simple correspondences, a cluster analysis and causal maps. Results show that only 26% of the participants recognized the need to give more attention to the problem of food waste. Particularly sensitive segments were younger, the better educated. Another interesting finding is that in times of economic crisis, afflicting Italy now for 8 years, attitudes, buying behavior and consumption of households have become more virtuous. Overall, the analysis confirmed the behavior of the participants, especially from Molise, still little careful. However, many respondents would be willing to accept advice on how to keep food and how to use the leftovers in the kitchen.