Modelling and Optimization for Improving the Performance of Agri-foods Supply Chain for Milk Products

Abstract

Human consumption of agricultural food in general, and milk in particular, is the subject of clear and intense interest in recent times, which has led dairy producers to follow a strict processing requirement to ensure consumers a fresh and safer milk, imposed by the Design and Operational Authority of the agricultural chains, which imposes closer monitoring and severe rigor, especially when it has become a public health issue. This work is concerned with the planning of a real agri-food supply chain for milk product for the city of Tlemcen in Algeria. Specifically, the challenge is to redefine the existing supply chain and optimize distribution planning. The management of perishable products is a relevant issue in the ASC management domain, since the sellers cannot wait for the best favorable market conditions unless the quality and safety of their products deteriorate. These products must therefore be rapidly shipped from the sellers to the customers. In addition, consumer’s demand for healthcare products continues to grow and government regulations are tightening. In addition to these factors, the variation for these time-limited products and their prices makes it difficult to plan purchases in supply networks.