Identifying Loss and Waste Hotspots and Data Gaps throughout the Wheat and Bread Lifecycle in the Fars Province of Iran through Value Stream Mapping

Abstract

Reducing wheat and bread loss and waste is crucial for ensuring global food security and sustainability. The importance of reducing wheat and bread loss is particularly significant in Iran, where wheat is a staple crop and a vital component of the country’s food security. A value stream mapping study was conducted to identify loss and waste hotspots and critical data gaps along the wheat and bread lifecycle (WBL). In October 2018, 14 experts were surveyed in Fars province, Iran’s second-largest wheat producer. The study presents a detailed cradle-to-grave overview of WBL and identifies farms, foodservice, and households as the loss and waste hotspots. The results revealed significant data gaps regarding on-farm wheat loss and household bread waste. Additionally, although data exist in other segments of WBL, they are not readily accessible nor utilized to report loss and waste, highlighting the need for transparency within the WBL system and further research to compile existing data and analyze wheat and bread loss and waste. Other researchers can employ the holistic approach of the present study to investigate loss and waste throughout the lifecycle of other food items in different geographical contexts. The methodology adopted in this study offers advantages for defining the scope of research in lifecycle assessment and circular economy studies.

Unraveling On-Farm Wheat Loss in Fars Province, Iran: A Qualitative Analysis and Exploration of Potential Solutions with Emphasis on Agricultural Cooperatives

“…Fars annually produces over 1.2 million tonnes of wheat, which constitutes more than 8% of the country's total wheat production [20]. However, as Ghaziani et al [26] highlight in their study on loss and waste throughout the wheat lifecycle in Fars province, there is a major knowledge gap concerning the extent and causes of on-farm wheat loss. Given the importance of this province, conducting research to fill this knowledge gap can inform targeted interventions and policies to reduce such losses, promote sustainable wheat-production practices, and contribute to Iran's food security.…”

“…Agricultural cooperatives, with their bottom-up democratic structure, can foster cooperation among farmers, and improve productivity. Despite actively engaging in the wheat supply chain in Fars, agricultural cooperatives have yet to realize their full potential [26]. This indicates a need for diagnostic exploration, to identify areas for improvement.…”