Presenting with Tyler Hilk

This study focuses on the problem of food waste in grocery stores in rural America and in food deserts, and the opportunities for designers to address these issues. Previous research has emphasized the need for food loss and waste management, and the environmental and socio-economic impacts it has in North America. The primary causes of food waste in these areas include expiration dates, spoilage, consumer purchasing behavior, and over-ordering of food products. Other studies have also examined how distance and attitudes towards shopping affect consumer behavior and the effectiveness of various strategies. Solutions to this problem could include a designed system incorporating technology that addresses the specific needs of low-income consumers in these areas. This paper presents the findings from a literature review and qualitative data collected through interviews. The results of this study can provide valuable insights for designers looking to reduce food waste in rural America and food deserts by identifying the key drivers of food waste, understanding consumer behavior and preferences, and identifying effective solutions that address the unique challenges of these areas.