In a world where millions face food insecurity, it may seem surprising that farmers often dispose of large quantities of perfectly edible food. However, economic forces sometimes make it more cost-effective for farmers to waste produce rather than sell it. This project challenges students to investigate why farmers throw away food and how supply-related economic factors contribute to this phenomenon.

Students will research real-world cases where farmers have been forced to discard their crops. They will analyze economic factors such as oversupply, price fluctuations, government policies, and labor shortages to understand why selling surplus food is sometimes more expensive than discarding it. For example, if the market is flooded with a particular crop, prices may drop so low that selling the product does not cover the costs of harvesting, transportation, and labor. Additionally, strict cosmetic standards in grocery stores may lead to the rejection of produce that is perfectly edible but does not meet visual expectations.

Another key factor to explore is government intervention in agricultural markets. Students should examine how subsidies, trade policies, and supply chain disruptions can influence the production decisions of farmers. They may also investigate the role of food donation programs and whether current economic structures incentivize or discourage farmers from redistributing excess produce.

By the end of the project, students should be able to explain the supply-side challenges that farmers face, demonstrating how economic inefficiencies, pricing mechanisms, and market constraints contribute to food waste. Their findings should be compiled into an investigative report, outlining the economic causes of food disposal, real-world examples, and potential policy solutions to mitigate waste.