Methods
The research was commissioned by the EPA and conducted by Ipsos B&A. Fieldwork took place in November 2021 through a 22-question online survey of 1,013 adults aged 16+. The sample was nationally representative and quota controlled by gender, age, socio-economic status, region and area.
Main Findings
The report shows that food waste is widely recognised as an important issue, with 82% agreeing it is an important national issue and 88% agreeing that everyone has a responsibility to minimise the food they throw away. However, planning and food management remain key challenges. Many people rate themselves poorly at organising food in the fridge and cupboard, and only 14% always plan dinners for the week ahead. The report also highlights confusion around date labels, with 28% misunderstanding or not knowing what “use-by” means. Bread, fruit, vegetables, leftovers and salad are the foods most frequently thrown out.
