The purpose of this paper is to analyze and compare the refuse patterns from three households. For each household, consideration is given to the make-up of the household, i.e. number of people living there, age and gender, economic status, and so on. A view of these households is from the perspective of an archeologist, taking into account whether the refuse data presented reflect adequately and realistically diet and nutrition. Helpful in this respect was the article "From Tikal to Tucson: Today's Garbage is Tomorrow's Artifact" (Rathje, 1981)
A review of this week's garbage indicates that there are most likely two adults in this household. Thursday shows two paper plates, and so does Friday (two paper towels, two paper plates). In addition, there was a cigarette pack, indicating an adult. The amount of beer cans over the week, combined with the Taco Bell bag, the Party Pizza box, cheese and meat wrappers, burrito wrapper, corn dog package, all indicate that this household is comprised of junk food eaters. The garbage list is devoid of anything indicating children, i.e. breakfast food, or even children's "junk" food, such as Twinkies. Considering the price range of the junk food in question (Taco Bell, burrito, tuna can, moldy bread, cream of chicken soup can, gum wrappers, Pasta Roni box) it is evident that this household is on an economic lower stratum. In addition, reviewing the amount of beer consumed, it is likely that at least one of the adults is overweight, and that both adults are couch potatoes.
A first glance of this household's garbage shows a composition of one person, living with a cat (one). The person is fastidious, in that cat litter is changed every day. The amount of eggs consumed might indicate a visitor, as opposed to a permanent member of the household (Tuesday's listù8 egg shellsùa bit much for just one per
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