China's fight against food waste clashes with tradition

Some say campaign at odds with custom of showing hospitality by having leftovers

A sign encouraging people not to waste food displayed at a restaurant in Handan, Hebei province, last week. The average Chinese diner throws away 93g of food per meal when eating out, according to a study. This is about 11.7 per cent of his meal. PHO
A sign encouraging people not to waste food displayed at a restaurant in Handan, Hebei province, last week. The average Chinese diner throws away 93g of food per meal when eating out, according to a study. This is about 11.7 per cent of his meal. PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
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When Mr Ren Yushi eats out with his family, he makes it a point to order less, and to minimise waste, he brings home the leftovers.

But when it comes to entertaining guests and friends from out of town, the economics lecturer often orders more than they need.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on August 21, 2020, with the headline China's fight against food waste clashes with tradition. Subscribe