Preliminary Data Analysis

Description of Data 

The study has implied three types of research method and thus three different data sets were obtained. Firstly, the interview data was obtained from 4 individuals encompassing; regular buyer utilizing plastic food packaging, plastic free store holder, a retail manager and the co-founder of a sustainable food retail company. Secondly, the data set for social media observation has included total 25 posts on Instagram and Facebook combine, from all around the world. Thirdly, the personal observation of the researcher have formed the data.  

Data Analysis and Research Findings 

Interview Findings 

The coding of interview data has shown that mainly two key themes have emerged from the data, which were about the; effect of plastic food packaging on food quality and on health of humans. The interviewees were mainly of the view that quality of food is deteriorated when plastic particles are released into the food. Most of the plastic types are said to lave traces on the food, which allows the leaching or merging of chemicals into the food. The response of James, who is co-founder of sustainable business, has shown that;

“Not all plastic particles are hazardous and some, such as paraben, has enhanced capacity to leach into the food. There is need to carry out detailed assessment of the adverse effects of plastic chemicals on food quality. Being an advocate of sustainability, I think that use of plastic in food packaging should be prohibited”

Likewise, same kind of response was given by Ella, who is a general consumers, mentioning;

“Though I lack technical knowledge of how chemicals merge with food to affect its quality, yet I surely know that plastic is not good for human health. The disposable water bottles should only be used once and use of any plastic wrapped food items or beverages should be avoided to the possible extent.”

Justin who was retail manager has mentioned that; “The packaging of food is done under guidelines of health and safety and only approved plastic types are used in food packaging. I think use of plastic food packaging is not much harmful.”