Household food waste and food security in urban Nigeria: Investigating waste management practices among families in Lagos

Title : Household food waste and food security in urban Nigeria: Investigating waste management practices among families in Lagos

Abstract:

Household food waste is a growing global concern that directly affects food security, particularly in urban areas of developing countries. This study investigated household food waste and its implications for food security among urban families in Lagos, Nigeria. The research adopted a descriptive survey design involving 150 household members associated with Federal College of Education (Technical) Akoka, University of Lagos, and Yaba College of Technology. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered via Google Forms, focusing on the extent of food waste, household food security, contributing factors, and management practices. Descriptive statistics, including means, standard deviations, and percentages, were used to summarize and analyze the data. Findings showed that households frequently discarded cooked leftovers and perishable foods, with approximately 20–30% of purchased food wasted. Key factors contributing to food waste as found out in the study included over-purchasing, excessive meal preparation, poor storage, and busy urban lifestyles. While households commonly practiced meal planning and proper storage, the reuse of leftovers and sharing surplus food were less frequent. Respondents perceived a clear link between household food waste and food security, indicating that better management of food resources could improve household nutrition and reduce vulnerability to food insecurity. The study emphasizes the need for educational interventions and awareness campaigns to enhance meal planning, improve storage and preservation techniques, and promote the reuse of leftovers. Policy initiatives aimed at reducing household food waste could further strengthen urban food security especially in Lagos. The findings contribute to the understanding of consumer-level food waste dynamics in Nigerian urban households and offer practical strategies for mitigating food loss while improving household nutrition and sustainability.

Keywords: Household Food Waste, Food security, Urban Families, Lagos, Food management Practices, Nigeria.

Biography:

Olaoye Sunday Francis, born on 7 October 1973, is a Nigerian researcher, academic, and food technologist at the Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka, Lagos. His research interests focus on food technology, nutrition, household sustainability, and innovative approaches to food security. He has contributed to several academic studies and conference presentations. Francis is passionate about promoting sustainable food systems and capacity building through education. He is married and blessed with children.