Calculating Food Waste

Data Collection and Analysis Steps

The United Against Waste (UAW) Austria initiative supports businesses in measuring and analysing their own food waste. To help them do so, UAW provides a guide, loan equipment for weighing food waste and an online tool for recording the data.

Determine the duration of the measurement period (between 1 and 4 weeks). The longer the period, the more accurate the results are likely to be.

1. Assign responsibilities

Appoint one or two committed staff members to take responsibility for measuring food waste during the selected period. Inform all employees about the process so that everyone collects food waste in the designated containers.

2. Sort and weigh food waste

Sort, collect and weigh food waste in the prepared containers throughout the measurement period. Separate it into 4–5 categories. If desired, you can also sort waste by product group (meat, vegetables, etc.). Record the total weight for each category or product group every day.

3. Analyse the results

At the end of the measurement period, you can analyse the results. You will also need to record the number of meals served. This allows you to calculate the following indicators:

• Food waste per meal, per day and over the entire measurement period

• Food waste by category or product group

4. Identify the causes

This enables you to determine not only the amount of food waste generated, but also where it occurs and which product groups are most affected. Feedback from guests and staff can provide valuable additional insights into the causes of buffet leftovers and plate waste.

5. Make use of available support

In Austria, UAW Austria runs the Küchenprofit programme, which helps businesses analyse food waste and identify measures to prevent it. The Food Waste Calculator from United Against Waste Germany gives you an initial overview of your food waste quantities and associated costs. You can also find further information in short instructional videos.

6. Define measures

After completing the assessment, set targets and define measures to reduce food waste. Motivate your staff to get involved in implementing them. Raising awareness of food waste and the costs it generates can help reduce waste.

Links

• United Against Waste (UAW) Austria initiative

• Guide: How to Measure Food Waste Yourself

• Food Waste Calculator

• United Against Waste Germany instructional videos

• United Against Waste (UAW) – Küchenprofit advisory programme