Religiosity and food waste behavior at home and away

Abstract

Numerous socio-demographic and psychographic factors affect food waste behavior of consumers at home and away. Although the effect of religiosity has been recognized, it remains only marginally investigated, especially in the context of food consumption outside the home. Previous quantitative studies have only established positive correlation between religiosity and food waste reduction intentions in households. This paper provides a qualitative perspective on the role of religiosity in food waste behavior at home and away by undertaking in-depth semi-structured interviews with Islam followers (n = 22) and religious leaders (n = 4). Unlike previous studies, the paper demonstrates limited association between religiosity and wasteless behavior. Consumers do not always associate wasted food with a sinful act. Social and cultural norms outweigh the positive effect of religious values and prompt wasteful behavior, especially when eating out. The paper argues that religious leaders should play a more pro-active role in encouraging wasteless behavior at home and away.