Solutions for reducing waste
The research found the more training staff had received, including ongoing training, the more motivated they were to act on food waste.
Respondents who had both initial and refresher training were more likely to be motivated to reduce food waste.
Those with no training or one-off induction were more likely to be unmotivated, ignore waste issues or be unsure how to respond.
Busy and quiet periods were ranked as the most wasteful times of day, suggesting outlets need tailored controls for both extremes.
Poor storage conditions and faulty equipment were also major contributors to waste, as were strict safety policies that often force surplus food to be discarded rather than donated.
The quick service restaurant sector is diverse but concentrated, with the top five companies accounting for 43% of the market.
The research identified practical recommendations that can be applied across different operational models and store environments.
Industry Director at End Food Waste Australia, Charlton Honig, said appropriate and regular training for staff is key.
“This project has shown the significant impact of training teams on ordering processes and the true cost of food waste,” he said.
“By cutting down on ordering mistakes and educating staff, quick service restaurants can keep more value in their business. It's a win-win – great for profits and the environment."
The report also recommends making food waste metrics part of performance evaluations for managers and staff, while celebrating food waste reduction wins.
Future research could compare objective, quantifiable waste across the industry, by using food waste tracking sheets and other data collection tools.
The Quick Service Restaurant Sector Action Plan, with RMIT co-authors Caroline Francis, Ruby Chan, Karli Verghese, Sam Quirk and Li Ping Thong, is published by RMIT University and End Food Waste Australia. It’s part of a wider suite of Sector Action Plans. Co-funded by the New South Wales Environmental Protection Authority and Queensland Government.
Story: Aеdеn Ratcliffе
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