Analyzing Food Loss in Banana Pepper (Capsicum annuum) Production: Causes, Impact, and Challenges, A Case Study of Large-Scale Farming in the Hot District, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Abstract

This study aimed to assess both quantitative and qualitative food loss in banana pepper production at the agricultural level. Its objectives included employing the Supply Chain Operations Reference Model (SCOR Model) for analysis, identifying root causes of losses and evaluating quantity and quality. Food loss here refers to diminished quantity and quality due to supply chain decisions and actions. Data collection and analysis included an extensive literature review, compilation of secondary data, primary data gathering via questionnaires and measurements of lost banana pepper yield during harvesting. Qualitative insights were acquired through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The study identified weather variability as the primary driver of food loss, with many farmers lacking access to climatic measuring tools. Additional losses, assessed visually, comprised damage from diseases, pests, stunted growth, mechanical issues and other factors, accounting for 13.68, 10.13, 6.95, 4.03 and 7.01 % of the total loss, respectively. Remarkably, only 57.93 % of the produce met quality and sale readiness criteria. The loss of banana peppers was estimated at 55.21 %, equivalent to 1,189.62 kg/rai, resulting in an economic loss of 35,688.58 Baht/rai. The study also noted significant nutrient losses, including energy, carbohydrates, fiber, protein, potassium, phosphorus, vitamin B1 and vitamin C, amounting to 321,197 kcal/rai and 57,102, 38,068, 17,844 g/rai and 3,045,427, 559,121, 487,744, 166,547 mg/rai, respectively. Farmers, while aware of food loss issues, often struggle to quantify them accurately. This study’s findings can raise farmers’ awareness and aid in designing training programs to mitigate such losses. However, addressing the inherent variability and unpredictability of on-farm food loss remains a challenge. Future research should prioritize a comprehensive analysis of banana pepper losses on farms. HIGHLIGHTS Weather variability was identified as the primary driver of food loss, exacerbated by limited access to climatic measuring tools Various factors contribute to food loss, including damage from diseases, pests, stunted growth and mechanical issues, accounting for 68 to 7.01 % of total loss Significant economic and nutrient losses, with a 21 % loss of banana peppers, resulting in an economic loss of 35,688.58 Baht/rai and substantial nutrient losses in various categories GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT