Food Waste Behavior

Food Production Waste

In terms of food production, foods can be wasted throughout the growing process; in particular, food losses are readily apparent in the actual harvest process. Food waste during food production can occur from a number of factors and is often the result of farm management choices, including tools and techniques used in growing food, geology, or weather-related factors. Specifically, crops can be lost to pest infestations, climatic variations in temperature and water access, and soil fertility issues (which decrease the ability to plants of attain the water and nutrient sources needed for growth, thus leading to greater vulnerability). Mechanical harvesters may be inefficient in harvesting food in its prime, hence leading to waste of crops that are not yet mature. Crops that are missed through mechanical harvesting methods can be utilized through gleaning efforts and hence do not contribute to overall food waste. In addition, foods that are unfit for human consumption may be utilized to feed animals.

Postharvest events can also create food waste. This can occur in transit or in the multiple areas where food is stored. In terms of storage, inadequately designed and managed storage systems can lead to waste. Spoilage can occur in regions with high temperature and humidity. Another consideration that leads to food waste is loss to pests, including insects and microorganisms. These are a concern primarily in high-temperature and high-humidity regions.

Industrial systems of production are further vulnerable to weather and geologic events. Perhaps the most easily recognized vulnerability is created through confined animal feed operations (CAFOs). CAFOs centralize production using industrial methods in an attempt to control every aspect of an animal's life toward the goal of maximizing yields. This centralization of production creates serious health vulnerabilities for animals, which are often subject to large doses of antibiotics. Further, CAFOs are intensive in terms of their management, inputs, and waste. There is a heavy concentration of animals and, hence, animal waste in one area. Flooding events, as well as everyday operations can lead to damage to marine life as well as to water quality and safety. Even where these waste products are properly collected, there are potential water pollution issues associated with the utilization of liquid manure from CAFOs.

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