<![CDATA[Background: Food waste is a longstanding issue in hospitals across Indonesia. Excessive food waste may contribute to inadequate nutritional intake among patients during hospitalization and hinder the recovery process. Objective: This study aimed to determine the relationship between food taste, food acceptability, and food waste among inpatients at Ruteng Regional General Hospital. Methods : This analytical observational study used a cross-sectional design and was conducted in March 2026 with 45 respondents. Inclusion criteria were inpatients aged ≥18 years, receiving regular meals or porridge, fully conscious and able to communicate, and hospitalized for at least 48 hours. Independent and dependent variables were measured simultaneously. Data were collected through interviews using questionnaires and direct weighing of leftover food from breakfast, lunch, and dinner over one day. Data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate analyses. Results: Bivariate analysis using the chi-square test followed by Fisher’s exact test showed no significant relationship between food taste and food waste (p = 1.000; p > 0.05). Conclusions: Similarly, no significant relationship was found between food taste and food acceptability (p = 1.000). However, a significant relationship was found between food acceptability and food waste (p = 0.000; p < 0.05). Keyword : food taste; food acceptability; food waste]]>
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