According to studies by the supermarket chain Asda, consumers in the United Kingdom view the environment as a significant issue, even more than their health.
Data from Asda’s Pulse of the Nation survey found that two-thirds of its customers (64 percent) are worried about the environment, with just 49 percent concerned about their health. This discrepancy revealed just how much of a concern the environment and sustainability are to consumers.
The customer is becoming more knowledgeable about their impact based on their consumption. Eighty-eight percent said reducing their food waste is vital to them. This is particularly important given the cost of living. Data from climate change NGO WRAP shows that over 70 percent of food waste occurs in the home, costing the average family around 700 pounds a year.
“Our customers care a lot about the environment and want to know ways to help and reduce their carbon footprint. Our job is to do what we can to make food waste reduction as simple as possible whilst doing all we can to reduce our own,” said Asda Senior Manager, Zero Waste, Karen Todd.
In response, the supermarket chain, Asda, has produced a dedicated page on its website with hints and tips on preventing food waste, including several tasty recipes using leftovers.
The supermarket is helping customers combat food waste in several ways, recently removing Best Before dates on numerous fresh fruit and vegetable products, giving customers agency to decide if the food is edible.
One method of combating food waste that the supermarket has implemented was by removing Use By dates, replacing them with Best Before dates on almost half of its brand yoghurts.
WRAP research revealed that 70 percent of all the yoghurt wasted in the home is due to the product ‘not being used in time’, with the date label cited as the reason.
“It is great to see Asda supporting their customers in the fight against food waste with this new webpage. At a time of rising food prices, tackling food waste at home is one way we can all make a difference - and help save money,” said Jackie Bailey, Love Food Hate Waste campaign manager.
