Welcome to the latest update from the ROSETTA project! We are thrilled to share the exciting steps we’re making towards reducing food waste and promoting sustainability. From insightful interviews to comprehensive surveys and collaborative platforms, our initiatives are paving the way for innovative solutions in the food industry.
In-depth Interviews with Stakeholders
As part of our ongoing efforts, we are conducting a series of in-depth interviews with stakeholders across the food value chain.
First, we are gathering insights on the impact of public and private food marketing standards on food waste. Stakeholders from the food industry are being asked to share their experiences and perspectives on how these standards influence food waste in various product categories, such as fruits and vegetables, cereals, dairy and meat. National marketing standards regulators are also included in our sample, allowing us to get a comprehensive view of marketing standards implementation. This information will help us understand the direct effects of marketing standards on food waste and shape more sustainable practices.
Secondly, we will be collecting and analysing promising interventions and good practices for managing suboptimal foods. This involves interviewing experts and relevant stakeholders like producers, processors and retailers to identify practical ways to utilise suboptimal foods, which might otherwise be wasted. The data collected will be analysed to develop recommendations for interventions and practices that can significantly reduce food waste and enhance food sustainability.
Consumer Survey
In addition to the interviews, we are also carrying out an extensive online survey targeting consumers in at least 10 EU countries. This survey seeks to explore consumer attitudes towards food waste, food marketing practices and foods that don’t meet quality standards. By understanding the factors that influence consumer decisions regarding food, we can provide valuable insights for companies and policymakers to develop more effective marketing strategies and policies. These strategies will help reduce food waste and promote sustainable consumption habits across Europe.
Multi-actor Innovation Platforms (MIPs)
Another key initiative is the establishment of Multi-actor Innovation Platforms (MIPs) in five selected use cases within the food value chain. These platforms are set up in Ireland, Spain, Poland, Denmark and Greece, focusing on fruit & vegetables, cereals, dairy and meat. The goal of the MIPs is to enhance cooperation among stakeholders, foster transdisciplinary research, and identify, test, measure, and validate sustainable solutions to reduce food waste linked to marketing standards.
To ensure effective collaboration, ROSETTA has developed a comprehensive model scheme protocol, which includes the expected structure of the MIPs, selection criteria for stakeholder representatives, methodology for establishing contact and engagement and members’ rights and duties. Each MIP aims to have 10-20 members, combining initially registered members with prospective individuals who may join in the future.
We are currently in the process of inviting and engaging representatives from various stakeholder groups, including farmers, processors, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, researchers, policymakers and consumer representatives. Their participation is crucial to the success of the project. Together, we can innovate and implement strategies that will significantly reduce and prevent food waste caused by marketing standards.
As we continue our journey, the engagement and collaboration of our stakeholders are more crucial than ever. Your participation helps us drive meaningful change and work towards a future where food waste is minimised, and sustainability is prioritised. Stay tuned for more updates and thank you for being part of this mission!
