Developing student food waste literacy

Abstract

This article addresses the pressing issue of food waste by focusing on the development of young adolescents’ food waste literacy. The concept of food waste literacy (FWL), defined as the literacy for the judicious use of food, encompasses knowledge, attitudes, values, and behaviours related to food waste. The article presents a study that aimed to enhance FWL among young adolescents in a New Zealand school through a teacher-directed guided inquiry intervention. A mixed-methods approach, including a survey and interviews, explored students’ food waste knowledge, attitudes, values, and behaviours. The findings underscore the potential of appropriate units of learning and curriculum design for developing FWL. Promoting food citizenship in students is central to addressing food waste issues through educational initiatives.