The most extensive listing of South African food loss and waste and relevant-related research, strategy and reports has. been published by Pinpoint Sustainability. Almost 360 pieces of work identified since 2000.
This updated list captures the ever growing interest in the area, with the most recent research illustrating current trends in South Africa, notably on how to add value to food waste generated during the processing stage, and increasing attention to the potential of black soldier fly and insect protein. Most emphasis is placed on technical solutions post-harvest or in-factory, with less on knowledge and attitudes to reduce food waste – whether in the household or workplace.
The growth in research output and national strategic emphasis is clear, with the number of publications having increased exponentially since the early 2000s, with 44 releases in 2021, 41 in 2022 and 34 in 2023. It is good to see the diversity of research emanating from our tertiary institutions, whether investigating brand impact on food waste generation through to mitigating post-harvest losses.
While every effort is made to capture all research and documents published, this is an impossible task. If a publication is missing from this list, and you wish it to be added, contact Nicola Jenkin at nicola@pinpointsustainability.co.za
Download the 2024 research list here.