Abstract
The United Nations’ sustainable development goals call for a 50 % reduction in global household food waste by 2030, but an accurate measurement method to quantify household food waste has yet to be developed. In a field experiment with 359 households, this study compares standard food waste measurement methods (survey, diary, kitchen caddy) and assesses the barriers to accurate measures. Based on our experimental design, we derive a minimal estimate of food waste (ground truth) that allows us to examine and explain the differences in the results of these methods. The results suggest that physical waste measurement is the most accurate measurement method, as it evokes the least behavioral adaptations. However, this method is resource-intensive and not always feasible. We provide guidance on how to measure food waste based on the purpose of the measurement, including specific materials to use and reporting standards to follow.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
