BU Research Blog

A Presentation of BA Leverhulme Funded Research

Wednesday 29^th October 2025, 3.30-5.00pm, DG06

The Centre for Sustainable & Socially Responsible Consumption (CSSRC) invites you to attend its research event on Wednesday 29^th October 2025 to enjoy a presentation of BA Leverhulme funded research. After a welcome refreshment this interesting, interactive and informative event will comprise a topical presentation session, led by members of CSSRC and colleague, as outlined below. Opportunity for discussions and networking over drinks and nibbles after the talk will round off the event.

Making “ugly” attractive: Can the way in which imperfect fruit & vegetables are presented reduce “ugly” food waste?

Food waste is one of today’s most pressing sustainability challenges, with consumer rejection of imperfect or “ugly” fruit and vegetables contributing to the problem. Retailers and policymakers alike are searching for strategies that not only increase acceptance of this type of produce but also reduce waste in stores and households.

Questions to address are: How do shoppers actually view “ugly” fruit and vegetables? What selling approaches can help shift perceptions and purchasing behaviour?

This talk will be presented by Dr Guljira Manimont (BU), Dr Jay Kim (University of Strathclyde), and Professor Juliet Memery (BU). Funded by the British Academy, their project explores consumer responses to imperfect produce and offers insights with practical implications for retail practice and sustainability.

Provisional Timetable:

3.30-3.45pm – Welcome refreshments

3.45-4.30pm – Presentation sessions

4.30-5.00pm – Discussion, networking and refreshments

This is a free event, but you must register to attend via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/making-ugly-attractive-reducing-food-waste-tickets-1720479824469?aff=oddtdtcreator

About CSSRC

The Centre for Sustainable & Socially Responsible Consumption (CSSRC) aims to promote and advance the understanding of sustainable consumption and socially responsible consumption through developing and delivering internationally renowned research. It provides a hub to explore and address topics that are currently globally relevant, through utilising a strong interdisciplinary focus. Webpage: https://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/research/centres-institutes/centre-sustainable-socially-responsible-consumption