Food movements and food waste in Germany: Slow Food members’ perspectives

In Germany, food waste has been much discussed in the media recently, signifying increasing concern about the issue in the German public. In addition to governmental campaigns, individuals and organizations undertake a variety of actions to raise awareness of and reduce waste. These so-called food movements are gaining in popularity. Slow Food is among the active food movements, which act against food waste and fast food. The study explores the perspective of Slow Food members with regard to food waste, in particular membersRSQUO knowledge and actions with respect to food waste and fast food. In 2014, ten in-depth interviews were conducted with active Slow Food members in Germany. Participants either held a leading role in the organization or were members of the Slow Food Youth movement. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed, using qualitative content analysis. Results show that knowledge with respect to food waste differs among the interviewees. Interviewees highlighted different causes of food waste and provided suggestions how to reduce it. Members interviewed believe that the activities within the movement contribute to the reduction of food waste and raise public awareness. The activities are often events with a social and an educational background with regard to food waste and food commensality. IntervieweesRSQUO knowledge with respect to fast food is less profound than their knowledge about food waste.