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

Shahin Ghaziani (), Gholamreza Dehbozorgi, Mohammad Bakhshoodeh and Reiner Doluschitz
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Shahin Ghaziani: Department of Computer Applications and Business Management in Agriculture, University of Hohenheim (410C), 70593 Stuttgart, Germany
Gholamreza Dehbozorgi: Horizon Smart SAT (Surveillance and Analysis Technology), Fars Science and Technology Park, Shiraz 71976-87811, Iran
Mohammad Bakhshoodeh: Department of Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture, Shiraz University, Shiraz 71441-13131, Iran
Reiner Doluschitz: Department of Computer Applications and Business Management in Agriculture, University of Hohenheim (410C), 70593 Stuttgart, Germany

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 16, 1-24

Abstract: Given wheat’s global significance as a primary food crop, and its importance in providing essential nutrition to millions of people worldwide, reducing on-farm losses is crucial to promoting food security, sustainable agriculture, and economic stability. Wheat plays a critical role in food security in Iran, as it is a staple food consumed daily by a large proportion of the population, and is also a vital component of the country’s food self-sufficiency policy. The present study aims to identify the causes and extent of on-farm wheat loss in Fars province, a major wheat-producing area in Iran. Nine experts were interviewed, using open-ended questions, in October 2018. The study revealed that a considerable amount of wheat is lost due to seed overuse, pest infestation, and improper harvesting. The paper discusses the underlying factors associated with these over-arching causes, and highlights their adverse environmental, economic, and societal impacts. The paper also explores potential approaches to take in addressing the issue, and suggests empowering agricultural cooperatives through changes in the government’s engagement with wheat production. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders which are useful for developing effective strategies to reduce on-farm loss, particularly in countries where intensified farming is promoted. These strategies may include limiting the government’s central control and, instead, empowering agricultural cooperatives, as well as adopting supportive approaches, such as improving farmers’ access to proper machinery, and enhancing their sovereignty and freedom.

Keywords: food loss and waste; cereals; developing countries; harvest loss; seeding efficiency; cooperative farming (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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