Why We Waste More Food in Summer?
Why We Waste More Food in Summer (and How We Can Fix It)
Did you know we waste 30% more food in the summer than in the winter? This startling statistic comes from a recent study by Divert, Inc., which analyzed food waste trends from 2020-2023 across retail, food service, and industrial sectors. The research compared data from the summer months of July, August, and September with the winter months of January, February, and March.
But why is summer so much worse for food waste? Let’s dive into the main factors contributing to this spike:
- Extreme Heat
The study period included some of the warmest days on record since 1940. This intense heat drastically reduces the amount of time food can remain safe for consumption. High temperatures increase the likelihood of food spoiling during transportation, storage, and even in-store displays. As a result, retailers and consumers are left with a narrower window to sell and use food before it goes bad.
- Shifts in Consumer Behavior
During the summer, consumer preferences shift. Fresh, high-quality produce like fruits, vegetables, and salads become the go-to choice. Restaurants also see a surge in customers as people dine out more frequently in the warmer months. However, the increased demand for fresh ingredients creates logistical challenges for retailers and food service providers. Keeping up with changing consumption patterns often leads to overstocking and, ultimately, increased waste when products expire or spoil.
- Peak Season for Perishables
Summer is peak season for many perishable foods, particularly fruits and berries. Farmers' markets are overflowing with seasonal produce, and backyard BBQs are in full swing. While the abundance of fresh produce is great, it also means higher levels of waste as these perishable items have shorter shelf lives. Overbuying for parties, outdoor gatherings, and BBQs often results in surplus food going to waste.
The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters
Understanding why food waste surges in the summer is essential to addressing this growing issue. From supply chain adjustments to more mindful consumer habits, identifying these factors allows us to better develop strategies to minimize food waste during the summer months.
How Can We Help Reduce Summer Food Waste?
- Plan meals carefully: Avoid over-purchasing fresh produce for events and gatherings.
- Support local: Buying from farmers' markets and local producers can help reduce waste through shorter supply chains.
- Store food properly: Learn tips for extending the life of perishable foods, especially during hot weather.
- Encourage change:
Work with restaurants and retailers to implement waste-reducing practices like donating unsold food or improving temperature-controlled storage systems.
We all play a part in reducing food waste, and with summer being a prime time for waste spikes, it's more important than ever to be mindful of how much we buy, store, and eventually throw away. Let’s turn those fresh, summer vibes into fresh, sustainable habits!