Can a Fun Family Program Help Reduce Food Waste and Encourage More Plant-Based Eating?
Can a Fun Family Program Help Reduce Food Waste and Encourage More Plant-Based Eating?
This study explores if “Supper Heroes,” a nutrition based program, might encourage more plant-based eating.
What We Did and Why We Did It
Researchers created Supper Heroes, a 4-month family program designed to help families with children aged 9–14 reduce food waste and eat more plant-based protein foods. The online program included seven interactive “missions” with videos, infographics, cooking classes, family activities, and practical tools like meal planning resources and recipes. Thirty Ontario families took part, and researchers looked at how easy the program was to complete, how much families enjoyed it, and whether it changed their eating habits.
Food waste and low intake of plant-based protein foods affect both human health and the environment. Researchers wanted to find out if an engaging, family-based program could help families build more sustainable eating habits that are practical, enjoyable, and easy to maintain.
What we found
What we can learn from this
Most families enjoyed taking part in Supper Heroes, with over 90% of parents saying they were satisfied with the program. Families who completed the program reduced their household food waste by more than 1 kg per week on average. Mothers also reported eating plant-based protein foods more often after the program. Families especially enjoyed the recipes, cooking classes, and practical tips for reducing food waste.
Family-based programs like Supper Heroes can make sustainable eating more engaging and achievable. Providing practical skills, fun activities, and simple strategies may help families waste less food and include more plant-based meals in their diets.
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