| Summary: | In recent years, academics from various disciplines, such as local and international organisations, have shown an increasing interest in food waste. Concerns over food security and environmental implications have heightened interest in the subject. While food waste happens at every stage of the food supply chain, researchers are yet to identify the primary generators of food waste as the evidence about the causes of food waste remains fragmentary. Reducing food losses and waste is one of the best ways to improve food security in the coming decades. This study aimed to investigate tomato waste along the supply chain in Kaduna state, Nigeria, using the mixed method approach for data collection. The mixed method approach allowed for a more comprehensive analysis of the complex factors contributing to tomato waste, providing valuable insights into the challenges faced by the tomato industry in the region. The research focuses on waste in the tomato supply chain using the "follow the thing" approach developed by Ian Cook.
The aim was to identify the waste that occurs at different supply chain stages. The study involved a survey of 64 farmers, 27 intermediaries, 47 traders and 38 consumers, and interviews with key stakeholders in the tomato industry. The data collection was analysed using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The results showed that the highest amount of tomato waste was generated by farmers, followed by intermediaries and traders. The waste is generated primarily due to overripe tomatoes, damaged tomatoes, and inadequate storage facilities. The study also identified several possible waste reduction techniques to improve the sustainability of the tomato supply chain in Kaduna State. The study highlights the need for effective waste management strategies and improvements in infrastructure and training for farmers to improve the sustainability and economic viability of the industry. The results of this research will be helpful for policymakers, agricultural practitioners, and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector to improve the efficiency and sustainability of the tomato supply chain in Nigeria.
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