Food loss and waste from farm to gate in Brazilian soybean production

Abstract

Brazil is a global leader in soybean production. Although it is acknowledged that part of Brazilian soybean crop is lost and wasted in transition from farm to gate, the exact magnitude of this food loss and waste (FLW) remains unknown. This hampers the design of preventative interventions, thus diminishing profitability of farmers and resellers. This study quantified FLW occurring from farm to gate, identified the causes and assessed the monetary value of the lost crop. Data were collected by continuous monitoring of the crop planted in 2020 and harvested in 2021 by a larger soybean producer in the State of Paraná. These data were triangulated with stakeholder interviews and secondary data. The monitoring results showed that for every US$ 20 of revenue from soybean production, about US$ 1 (5.68%) was lost or wasted. Incorrect use of combine harvesters, moisture and foreign material represented the main FLW causes. The results highlighted the need to implement policies aimed at raising awareness of FLW among farmers and their employees. • A case study of FLW from Brazilian soybean production. • Out of every US$ 20 of soybean producer's income, US$ 1 is lost or wasted between farm and gate. • FLW increases as distance from farm to gate becomes greater. • Better trained combine harvester operators will reduce FLW significantly. • Measures are required to change farmers' attitude to FLW as being an issue of little concern.