Japan Consumer Affairs Agency reports food loss awareness gap

A survey by the Consumer Affairs Agency reveals that 79.1% of people in Japan are aware of the food loss issue. However, a generational gap exists, with awareness among those in their 30s at only 65.2%, compared to 90.5% for those aged 70 and older.

While 74.6% of respondents are actively working to reduce food loss, this falls short of the government's 80% target. The survey also noted that 41.3% of consumers tend to purchase products with longer expiration dates regardless of their actual consumption plans.

Regarding food donations, 36.3% of respondents expressed reluctance to donate leftover food, a figure that rises to 48.2% among those in their 30s. Key suggestions for improving donation rates include better temperature and hygiene management at donation sites, as well as installing collection boxes in supermarkets and local government facilities.