Wasted Food in Low-Income Households: the Role of Abundance and Affection

Abstract

ObjectiveThis study aims to identify core factors that lead to wasted food in lower-middle income households.Design, Setting and ParticipantsThis qualitative study included data gathering via in-depth interviews with 20 mothers in their homes, observations and photos. The sample included ethnically diverse families from four different areas in a Central NY state town.Outcome Measures and AnalysisContent analysis and grounded theory coding procedures were performed utilizing Atlas.ti software.ResultsIt was found that 3 dimensions of food abundance promotes waste: easy availability of food, overcooking, and abundant stock perceived as a security necessity. Additionally, 3 major categories related to affection were identified as antecedents of wasted food: good mother behavior, family meal enjoyment, and caring for grandchildren.Conclusions and ImplicationsFood abundance and affection are positive intentions that might have a negative outcome when analyzed its impact on wasted food. The paradox of waste in a low-income context emerged as a real problem for these families, and opportunities for nutrition educators and policy makers (e.g. SNAP program) are presented in order to educate consumers to make smarter purchases, to plan meals better, and to show affection in ways that do not involve overservings.FundingCornell Food and Brand Lab. ObjectiveThis study aims to identify core factors that lead to wasted food in lower-middle income households. This study aims to identify core factors that lead to wasted food in lower-middle income households. Design, Setting and ParticipantsThis qualitative study included data gathering via in-depth interviews with 20 mothers in their homes, observations and photos. The sample included ethnically diverse families from four different areas in a Central NY state town. This qualitative study included data gathering via in-depth interviews with 20 mothers in their homes, observations and photos. The sample included ethnically diverse families from four different areas in a Central NY state town. Outcome Measures and AnalysisContent analysis and grounded theory coding procedures were performed utilizing Atlas.ti software. Content analysis and grounded theory coding procedures were performed utilizing Atlas.ti software. ResultsIt was found that 3 dimensions of food abundance promotes waste: easy availability of food, overcooking, and abundant stock perceived as a security necessity. Additionally, 3 major categories related to affection were identified as antecedents of wasted food: good mother behavior, family meal enjoyment, and caring for grandchildren. It was found that 3 dimensions of food abundance promotes waste: easy availability of food, overcooking, and abundant stock perceived as a security necessity. Additionally, 3 major categories related to affection were identified as antecedents of wasted food: good mother behavior, family meal enjoyment, and caring for grandchildren. Conclusions and ImplicationsFood abundance and affection are positive intentions that might have a negative outcome when analyzed its impact on wasted food. The paradox of waste in a low-income context emerged as a real problem for these families, and opportunities for nutrition educators and policy makers (e.g. SNAP program) are presented in order to educate consumers to make smarter purchases, to plan meals better, and to show affection in ways that do not involve overservings. Food abundance and affection are positive intentions that might have a negative outcome when analyzed its impact on wasted food. The paradox of waste in a low-income context emerged as a real problem for these families, and opportunities for nutrition educators and policy makers (e.g. SNAP program) are presented in order to educate consumers to make smarter purchases, to plan meals better, and to show affection in ways that do not involve overservings.