Download Our Publication Series on Social Norms and Food Waste @CHORIZOproject What influences food waste among children in school? Why do companies hesitate to donate surplus? Often, the answer lies not in the lack of awareness, but rather in the social norms that shape our decisions. As part of the EU Horizon Europe project CHORIZO, we have explored this underutilised lever and translated findings into practical guidance across five key sectors. Why social norms matter Social norms are the unwritten rules that guide everyday behaviour, what people do because they see others doing it (descriptive norms), or because they believe it is expected of them (injunctive norms). These norms are active across every context where food is bought, prepared, served, or thrown away. The following lines give a glimpse into 5 practical guidance documents on social norms and food waste, that we have published on our CSCP library. Whether you work in urban food policy, education, food service, or redistribution, you can check them out by downloading your copies now. The not-so-bright side: Social norms hinder people to reduce food waste In retail, the assumption that only perfect produce belongs on the shelf drives waste. In cities this influences procurement and expectations. In schools, pupils are often focused on the external appearance of their food. Especially younger pupils tend to adapt peer behaviour, which can fuel plate waste in school canteens. In food services, a culture of overproduction signals generosity, but at a cost. For food banks, unfounded fears of legal liability block donation. Across all sectors, however also helpful norms like valuing leftovers or normalising donation, can be identified and actively reinforced. Good communication can go a long way Communication materials that celebrate careful food use as a community target address the so-called “injunctive” norm as they appeal to people’s values and expectations. They can shift both individual behaviour and institutional culture. Targeted awareness campaigns, that are built on social norm insights and emphasise the social impact of the action, can reduce food safety concerns and build confidence among businesses considering food donation. In schools, training the staff and embedding food waste literacy into everyday learning has shown real potential to shape lasting food-related norms. From insight to intervention Within the guidance documents, CSCP’s 8-step framework helps practitioners identify which norms are at play in their context, design targeted interventions, and evaluate real-world impact. Whether you work in urban food policy, education, food service, or redistribution, understanding social norms in your context is the first step to making your food loss and waste reduction efforts more effective. The Chorizo guidance documents cover five sectors: Cities: social norms in urban food planning and procurement Food redistribution and food banks: shifting donation culture and reducing legal concerns Schools: building food waste literacy among students and communities Food services: addressing norms among staff and customers in restaurants, hotels and catering All sectors: a cross-cutting overview bringing together key findings and helpful vs. unhelpful norms Interested in applying social norms thinking to your next project? We would be happy to explore how this approach can strengthen your work. Please reach out to Nora Brüggemann.