Food consumption and food waste behaviour in households in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

PurposeThis research aims to understand the behaviour of food consumption and waste in Peruvian households at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.Design/methodology/approachExploratory research was carried out with Peruvian households, using a descriptive method design. Data were analysed using descriptive and multivariate statistics. A self-administered questionnaire of 60 questions was used, applied by social networks in May 2020, obtaining 418 valid questionnaires.FindingsThe main findings allow the identification of a behaviour aiming the avoidance of waste and purchasing with a cost–benefit orientation, which is followed by purchase planning, knowledge and use of information on labels, food storage and cooking skills.Practical implicationsFor companies in the food sector, relevant information is provided on consumer behaviour. For policymakers, elements are provided for the promotion of responsible consumption and zero waste. For the academy, an explanation is provided of how and in what way crises influence the behaviour of food consumption and waste.Social implicationsEnvironmental-friendly and responsible consumption behaviour need to be supported, as well as to make consumers aware of the costs of food waste. These measures could be fostered by collective action that includes different actors – from civil society, the private and public sectors – and contribute to a sustainable solution, focused on improving consumption patterns and food waste.Originality/valueThe novelty of this research is based on exploring the understanding of the existing relation among food consumer behaviour, in a context of crisis, towards food waste prevention and avoidance, cost–benefit orientation and the knowledge about labelling, storage and handling.

Analyzing the relationship between consumers’ and entrepreneurs’ food waste and sustainable development using a bibliometric approach

“…Besides, similar to previous studies (Principato et al, 2021) our research sheds light on the complex sides of the food waste phenomenon, highlighting the trend of research on this topic (Zhang et al, 2018;Vásquez Neyra et al, 2022;D'Adamo et al, 2023). More specifically, our study provides an essential segment of information presenting the issues around food waste that are denoted as the motor themes with a critical role of food waste in future food waste management and policies, such as the concept of circular economy (de Oliveira et al, 2021;Nikolaou and Tsagarakis, 2021;Santagata et al, 2021).…”

Influence of COVID-19 on Environmental Awareness, Sustainable Consumption, and Social Responsibility in Latin American Countries

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Household food wastage in Montenegro: exploring consumer food behaviour and attitude under COVID-19 pandemic circumstances

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