BRIDGING THE DIVIDE: UNDERSTANDING FOOD PURCHASE BEHAVIOUR ANDHOUSEHOLD FOOD STORAGE PRACTICES

Abstract

Food waste has emerged as a major challenge affecting food security, environmental sustainability, and efficient resource
utilization. Household food purchase behaviour and food storage practices are key determinants influencing the generation of food
waste. The present study was conducted among 45 rural households in Karimnagar district of Telangana State to assess their food
purchase behaviour, food storage practices, and the influence of selected socio-economic characteristics on these behaviours. An
exploratory research design was adopted, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The data were analysed
using frequency, percentage, and step-down regression analysis. The findings revealed that majority of respondents were
middle-aged, belonged to nuclear families, had small family size, and were from medium-income households. Rural households
exhibited favourable food purchase behaviour, with most respondents agreeing with majority of food purchase behaviour statements,
although moderate levels of uncertainty were observed for certain practices. Similarly, respondents demonstrated positive food
storage practices, with high agreement for most recommended storage behaviours, indicating awareness of proper food preservation
methods. Step-down regression analysis revealed that age, occupation, religion, and family income significantly influenced food
purchase behaviour, collectively explaining 33.3 per cent of its variation. Family income was identified as the only significant
predictor of food storage practices, accounting for 20.0 per cent of the variation. The study highlights that socio-economic characteristics
play an important role in shaping household food management practices. Strengthening consumer awareness and promoting
appropriate food purchasing and storage practices through targeted educational interventions can contribute to reducing household
food wastage, improving food security, and supporting sustainable consumption in rural communities.