Short food supply chain adoption in Chilean organic and agroecological organizations: a qualitative comparative analysis

Abstract

In contrast to the historical development of short food supply chains (SFSCs) in North America and Europe, the institutional and political environment in Chile has been characterized by market liberalization and the promotion of food exports, relegating the adoption of SFSCs to conditions of informality, uncertain quality, and low prices in the domestic market. In the last decade, this situation has begun to change as incomes have risen and consumers have become more aware of food quality. The present research analyzes the adoption of SFSC in Chilean organic and agroecological farmers’ organizations. Using the method of qualitative comparative analysis for crisp sets, three configurations of favorable conditions for the adoption of SFSC are identified, related to the types of products and services offered by the organizations to their members. This provides valuable background information for the formulation of public policies that promote a transformation toward more equitable and sustainable food systems.