Preliminary drivers associated with household food waste generation in South Africa

This study assessed the potential drivers of household food wastage in the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. A total of 210 participants were interviewed face-to-face using structured questionnaire. The acquired data were captured in Microsoft Excel, and analyzed using the chi-square statistical test and SAS statistical software. The main reasons for household food wastage were identified as buying in excess, preparation of more food than would be consumed, poor storage, poor purchase planning and falling for special offers. The study found that there is a need for household awareness or education on food waste and better food management.