Sustainable Food Production, Consumption, and the Generation of

The questionnaires were separated into sections (food waste, packaging waste, food
production) and a different member of the research team analyzed one section each. Results for
each question were tabulated and entered into Microsoft Excel. Open-ended responses were
tabulated and then coded into broader themed categories. Some responses were included in more
than one category. Further analysis consisted of simple operations to calculate averages and
percentages. Results are presented numerically and in tables throughout the report.
1.5 Key informant interview design
The key informant interviews were designed through a highly collaborative process
between the project researchers and supervisor. Each researcher designed questions based upon
their own research area that were aimed at store managers, non-governmental organizations, and
policy-makers. One set of questions was designed for specific interviews with store managers,
while other, more focused interviews were aimed at specific key informants. A semi-structured
interview format was implemented in each case, with questions that were carefully revised to suit
the topic and interviewees. A carefully chosen mix of open and close-ended questions allowed
for interviewee opinions to be clearly and openly stated. The design of the interviews allowed for
complete anonymity of the subject and was revised heavily with a point to remove, as much as
possible, researcher bias. The end result was a compilation of focused questions aimed at
unearthing the interviewees’ knowledge and revealing their opinions without causing discomfort
or confusion.
1.6 Key informant interview administration
The administration of the semi-structured interviews required that the researchers agree
upon a uniform procedure prior to going into the field. It was necessary to consider that separate
researchers might approach and question the interviewees in different ways that could potentially
hinder or drastically alter informer response. With a mind to creating a standard of objectivity,
introductions were scripted and a uniform oral consent form was used (see appendix B for
example of consent form). By using these standards it was felt that the individual biases of the
interviewer would be kept under check, while allowing for an open and unhindered response
from the subject. A tape recorder was used with consent of the interviewee for playback and
transcription purposes. In cases where interviews could not be arranged face-to-face, questions
were supplied in hard and electronic copies and answered similarly.
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