Fruit and vegetable waste at domiciliary level: what is the panorama?

Abstract

Abstract Loss and waste of food are a global problem, especially the amount of fruits and vegetables therein. Among the steps in the food supply chain, residential waste is one of the highest. Thus this study sought to systematize information about the waste of fruits and vegetables in households. The survey of publications was done by peers, independently (double blind), using the CAB Abstracts, Web of Science, Food Science Technology Abstracts, and Scopus databases. Although there is no standardized methodology for the purpose of comparing results, there was a greater waste of vegetables than of fruits, with frequent reports of food disposal still in a condition of consumption. In per capita values, families with one person and those with large numbers of members and children wasted more, while elderly people wasted less. The authors point out the need for public action to address the issue and educational activities for consumers.