‘Confusing’ food labels are driving Australians to throw away perfectly edible food, costing households money and contributing to the nation’s food waste problem, according to new research.
In collaboration with End Food Waste Australia, RMIT University researchers found poor label design and inconsistent packaging were two key reasons consumers throw out food – and it could cost the average household up to $2500 annually.
The research shows clearer, more consistent date labels and storage advice with related bigger print and simple icons, could drastically reduce the amount of food waste.
Lukas Parker, Project lead at RMIT said shoppers don’t want to waste food or money.
“Australian shoppers deserve better than this. They’re being let down by labels that don’t give them the information they need to make the right call,” said Parker.
“It’s time for a consistent, clear system that helps people make smarter choices, saves money and keeps good food out of the bin.”
Parker said that despite consumers wanting label changes, workshops revealed hesitations from food industry stakeholders, who cited concerns about cost, compliance and regulatory complexity.
The gap between consumer needs and system readiness was also identified as a major barrier to progress.
Tristan Butt, Chief Executive Officer of End Food Waste Australia said cutting food waste through smarter labels will only happen if government, retailers and food producers work together.
“Clear, consistent date labelling is one of the most cost-effective and scalable ways to reduce household food waste, but it won’t happen without industry-wide collaboration,” said Butt.
“This single change could prevent nearly a million tonnes of food waste by 2030. The United Kingdom’s retail sector has already proven this change is possible, without compromising food safety. It’s time we did the same.”
The next phase of the National Date Labelling and Storage Advice Project will bring together supermarkets, food brands and government to co-design, test and roll out a national framework for date labelling and storage advice.
For more information, visit: www.rmit.edu.au/
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