How duration of storage affects food waste behavior

Abstract We investigate how duration of storage affects food waste behavior. propose and demonstrate a negative impact duration‐of‐storage: even when two packaged products are otherwise identical (i.e., same manufacturing/expiration dates, not expired, unopened), the product that has been stored for longer under current ownership is more likely to be wasted, wasted in greater quantities. This occurs because duration‐of‐storage lowers consumers’ perceptions freshness, normative justification possible. The an independent effect over above those due manufacturing expiration persists both single joint evaluation. draw from research several areas, including ownership, mental accounting, science, management develop our theory. report findings six preregistered studies, provide process evidence, identify interventions lower waste.