91% are changing their shopping habits to reduce food waste

Monday, October 16, 2023

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Either due to environmental (59%), social (52%) or financial (70%) concerns, nearly 98% of consumers worldwide are now actively trying to reduce food waste, Kerry’s new study finds. Relatively, more than 5,000 consumers from ten countries participated in this study, sharing their thoughts on food waste and possible solutions to this issue.

More specifically, nearly 70% of consumers surveyed said they are interested in purchasing products that are designed to minimize food waste. Most of consumers (72%) believe that products with a longer shelf-life help reduce waste, and 1/3 are expected to switch to long-life brands or products. In addition, among other things, the study reports that consumers have shared their opinion about preservatives, with nearly 3 in 4 ranking it as one of the most important factors in their purchasing decisions. It is noted that half of consumers said they agreed with buying food containing artificial preservatives, but the majority (82%) would more readily accept natural preservatives.

They either buy smaller quantities, check expiration dates, or go so far as to prefer other greener brands, 91% of consumers are now changing their shopping habits to reduce food waste.

Source: Food Reporter #1034/2023-10-04