Study shows most food goes to waste

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - More food is being thrown out than consumed.

British researchers say it's all in how we buy food, which often depends on how it looks.

The Institution of Mechanical Engineers' study says many grocery stores don't display produce that's been bruised in transit because shoppers won't buy it. Researchers say combining that with how wasteful shoppers are when buying food in excess, will mean half of the food that's produced ends up being thrown away, left to rot or fed to animals.

“Grocery stores don't know how much food they are going to sell and they have to throw out a lot usually,” said Tom Brockbank of Easthampton.

“I think its awful because food is so expensive today,” said Doris Kuzega of Easthampton. “We just can't afford to be that way. We make out a list.”

Researchers say only buying what you know you will eat can start changing behaviors and make a big difference.