The attitudes and practices of United Arab Emirates consumers towards food waste: A nationwide cross-sectional study

Background: Reducing global food waste is an international environmental, health, and sus-tainability priority. Although significant reductions have been achieved across the chain, progress by UAE households consumers remain inadequate. This study seeks to understand association between consumer attitudes, knowledge, awareness relating practice of residents living in UAE. help inform policy action for addressing this national Methods: A cross-sectional was conducted using a validated semi-structured online questionnaire through stratified sampling (n =1052). The Spearman correlation coefficient performed determine correlations. Two independent regression analysis were used with: 1) knowledge attitude subdomains, 2) sociodemographic characteristics. Respondents (n=1072) largely reflect socio-demographic characteristics population distribution seven Emirates. Results: As expected, negative found overall attitude. models showed reduced associated with better personal attitude, financial (first model), older age fewer adults household (second model). We (a commitment, intention), (cost-saving motivation), (existing) Food (FW) waste, indicating that about FW, or reduction undesirable practice. While emotional (moral concerns) positively significantly (undesirable behaviour). Conclusions: Food poses challenges UAE, it requires comprehensive understanding multifaceted factors influencing behavior. By promoting fostering positive considering socio-cultural factors, policymakers can develop effective strategies reduce contribute sustainable development goals.