open access publication

Article, 2024

Household Food Waste in Morocco: An Exploratory Survey in the Province of Kenitra

Sustainability, ISSN 2071-1050, Volume 16, 11, 10.3390/su16114474

Contributors

Belfakira C. [1] Hindi Z. [1] Lafram A. [1] Bikri S. [1] Benayad A. 0000-0002-6207-6583 [1] El Bilali H. 0000-0002-0322-2034 (Corresponding author) [2] Gjedsted Bugel S. [3] Srednicka-Tober D. 0000-0002-8143-2918 [4] Pugliese P. 0000-0001-6753-7804 [2] Strassner C. 0000-0001-7962-8690 [5] Rossi L. 0000-0001-9976-9394 [6] Stefanovic L. [7] Aboussaleh Y. [1]

Affiliations

  1. [1] Faculté des Sciences
  2. [NORA names: Morocco; Africa];
  3. [2] Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Bari
  4. [NORA names: Italy; Europe, EU; OECD];
  5. [3] University of Copenhagen
  6. [NORA names: KU University of Copenhagen; University; Denmark; Europe, EU; Nordic; OECD];
  7. [4] Warsaw University of Life Sciences
  8. [NORA names: Poland; Europe, EU; OECD];
  9. [5] Münster University of Applied Sciences
  10. [NORA names: Germany; Europe, EU; OECD];

Abstract

The data from the United Nations Food Waste Index 2021 suggest that food losses and waste represent a pressing challenge, even in developing countries. This study investigates food waste in Morocco, specifically focusing on Kenitra province (northwestern Morocco). It quantifies the food waste types and quantities in Kenitra households and explores the underlying causes. Conducted in 2022, the research involved 442 respondents aged 18 and above, utilizing both face-to-face and online surveys. The findings reveal bread as the most wasted item, with minimal waste of meat and cereals. On average, households discard 361 g of bread per week, 98 g of fresh produce, and 9 g of cheese. The primary causes of food waste are difficulties in reusing small leftovers (32%), followed by challenges in meal preparation with available ingredients (34%). This study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions to address food waste effectively in Kenitra. By shedding light on waste dynamics and causes, it contributes to understanding this critical issue and offers valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders working to implement strategies for reducing food waste and promoting sustainable consumption practices.

Keywords

Kenitra, Morocco, SysOrg, food security, household food waste, survey, sustainability

Funders

  • Narodowe Centrum Badań i Rozwoju
  • H2020 ERA-NETs SUSFOOD2
  • Grønt Udviklings- og Demonstrations Program
  • Italian Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty
  • Bundesministerium für Ernährung und Landwirtschaft
  • Miljø- og Fødevareministeriet
  • Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Innovation of Morocco

Data Provider: Elsevier