Investigating systemic and social dynamics of food loss and waste: An application of waste regime theory to food production in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

This research investigates the relationships of social and discursive effects on food loss and waste (FLW) in primary food production through a case study of the kiwifruit industry in Aotearoa New Zealand by using ‘waste regime theory’, which was first developed by Science and Technology Studies scholar Zsuzsa Gille as an organising concept. Qualitative data from semi-structured interviews and analysis of industry and policy documents are interpreted through thematic analysis to explore the production, politics and representation of FLW, and to demonstrate the ways in which these factors interact to enact a ‘food waste regime’. The findings identify two distinct discourses of FLW: either as consequence of supply chain dynamics, or as a consequence of market driven quality assurance (QA) requirements. The former is seen as opening possibilities for technical interventions. The other is seen to be a baked-in structural reality of the industry that doesn’t allow for any strategic intervention. Either discourse arguably has the effect of invisibilising different aspects of FLW in the sector and potentially reducing the perceived need interventions by managers at a systemic level in the sector.