FAO.org

Retailers are an important interaction point for consumers and food and are well placed to provide information and guidance regarding ways in which food waste can be minimized. Using labelling approaches such as “best before” in conjunction with advice on how best to consume products is one strategy. Providing clear advice on freezing food to avoid waste, is another. Other ways retailers can help consumers reduce food waste include:

• provide food in smaller packages
• discourage consumers from buying large amounts of food with a short shelf life
• provide advice on how to limit food waste via loyalty card schemes
• remove buy one, get one free promotions of core products
• encourage consumers to buy misshapen or blemished fruits and vegetables to ensure they are not wasted
• provide guidance on storage and freezing
• ensure that date marks and instructions on food packaging are clear and consistent
• encourage consumers to create shopping lists, perform meal planning, including assessment of portion size, and use leftovers
• encourage purchase of frozen seafood
• promote the idea of consuming parts of fish not commonly eaten, such as soups from made from fish heads