Evaluating Food Waste Reduction Strategies and Their Impact on Public Health Outcomes

This study evaluates the effectiveness of food waste reduction strategies and their influence on public health outcomes. We systematically analyze interventions such as food redistribution programs, educational initiatives, and supportive government policies, focusing on their impact on food access and the incidence of foodborne illnesses. Employing Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Chi-square tests, Linear Regression, and ANOVA on data sourced from recent studies, we identify food redistribution and improved food access as primary drivers accounting for 67% of variance in waste reduction outcomes. Chi-square analysis reveals a significant association between food redistribution efforts and a 16% reduction in foodborne illness rates (p < 0.05). Linear regression demonstrates that educational programs significantly increase access to healthy foods by 35% (p < 0.001). ANOVA results confirm that multilevel interventions, particularly food redistribution, yield the most substantial public health benefits (F = 6.38, p = 0.001). The findings underscore the critical role of integrated, policy-supported interventions in minimizing food waste while enhancing nutritional equity and reducing disease burden. This research provides evidence-based guidance for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to implement sustainable food systems that promote public health.