Final answer:
The study of consumer behavior and preferences for foods and products by examining disposed items found in the trash is known as anthropology. Anthropologists use various clues, including residue studies of food and drink, stable isotope analysis of human bones and teeth, and examination of material artifacts to reconstruct food practices of different cultures. By studying trash and discarded items, anthropologists gain insights into historical and contemporary foodways.
Step-by-step explanation:
The study of consumer behavior and preferences for foods and products by examining disposed items found in the trash is known as anthropology. Anthropologists are interested in understanding how culinary traditions shape identity and often attempt to reconstruct food practices of different cultures using various clues, including residue studies of food and drink, stable isotope analysis of human bones and teeth, and examination of material artifacts such as food utensils and food residues. By studying trash and discarded items, anthropologists can gain valuable insights into historical and contemporary foodways.