The role of diverse distribution channels in reducing food loss and waste: The case of the Cali tomato supply chain in Colombia

Food loss and waste (FLW) in developing countries is often high at postharvest stages due to technical infrastructural constraints, while supermarket expansion has induced organizational, institutional technological changes the agrifood supply chains. Here we assess volume of FLW along a food chain (FSC) analyze roles that non-supermarket channels play dealing with FLW. The study based on primary data collected tomato chain—from production retailing—in Cali (Colombia). results revealed relatively low to: 1) diversity consumer preferences, 2) reduced harvest-to-sale time, 3) marketing strategies adopted sell downgraded damaged products, 4) overlap complementarity between channels. highlights importance preserving these avoid unsold meet range consumers’ needs, providing greater opportunities for farmers.