Robust Optimization and Strategic Analysis for Agri-food Supply Chain under Pandemic Crisis: Case Study from an Emerging Economy
Misagh Rahbari, Alireza Arshadi Khamseh, Mohammad Mohammadi
Article Robust Optimization and Strategic Analysis for Agri-food Sup...
... a paper showing a model where the disposing cost of waste (and amounts of waste) is incorporated in the model ... thus, one solution for dealing with waste is to consider using the waste and recycling it within the chain ...
I would say better planning and logistical arrangements. This must be supported with ample people with proper skillsets with an understanding of agricultural supply and demand. Forecasting technology can also be of assistance.
Reducing food waste in the agricultural supply chain is crucial for improving food security, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting sustainable agriculture. Here are some of the best strategies for reducing food waste in the agricultural supply chain:
Improving harvesting and handling practices: Harvesting and handling practices can have a significant impact on the quality and shelf life of fruits and vegetables. Improving practices such as proper timing of harvesting, careful handling during transport and storage, and temperature control can help reduce spoilage and extend the shelf life of products.
Improving supply chain efficiency: Efficient supply chains can help reduce food waste by reducing the time and distance between harvest and consumption. Shorter supply chains can help minimize product loss due to spoilage and damage during transport.
Donating surplus food to charitable organizations: Donating surplus food to charitable organizations such as food banks and soup kitchens can help reduce food waste and improve food security. Surplus food that is still safe for consumption can be distributed to those in need, rather than being discarded.
Investing in better storage and preservation technologies: Improved storage and preservation technologies such as refrigeration, cold rooms, and modified atmosphere packaging can help extend the shelf life of products and reduce spoilage.
Reducing consumer waste: Consumer waste is a significant contributor to food waste in the agricultural supply chain. Educating consumers about proper food storage, expiration dates, and portion control can help reduce waste.
Using food waste for other purposes: Food waste can be repurposed for other uses, such as composting or animal feed. Repurposing food waste can help reduce waste and improve sustainability.
Reducing food waste in the agricultural supply chain is essential to improve food security, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase economic sustainability. Here are some of the best strategies for reducing food waste in the agricultural supply chain:
Improved harvesting techniques: Implementing efficient harvesting techniques can minimize damage to crops and reduce losses due to over-ripening, bruising, and contamination.
Better storage and transportation: Improving storage and transportation conditions can prevent spoilage and damage to crops during handling and transportation, including temperature-controlled storage and transportation, and packaging materials that provide better protection.
Enhanced supply chain management: Implementing better supply chain management practices, including data collection and analysis, can improve visibility and traceability of the supply chain, reduce waste, and optimize supply chain efficiency.
Collaboration and coordination: Collaborating and coordinating across the supply chain can help to optimize production and reduce waste, including sharing information and resources to minimize waste throughout the supply chain.
Donation and redistribution: Donating surplus food to food banks, shelters, and other charitable organizations can reduce waste and help address food insecurity.
Value-added products: Developing value-added products, such as sauces, juices, and preserves, can help reduce waste by utilizing surplus crops and extending the shelf life of products.
Education and awareness: Educating consumers, farmers, and other stakeholders about the impact of food waste and strategies for reducing waste can help to build awareness and support for efforts to reduce waste throughout the agricultural supply chain.
Reducing food waste in the agricultural supply chain requires a multi-faceted approach that involves collaboration and coordination across the supply chain, implementing best practices for harvesting, storage, and transportation, and educating stakeholders about the impact of food waste and strategies for reducing it.