Strengthening short food supply chains: Prioritizing obstacles and opportunities with PROMETHEE, Fuzzy DEMATEL, and Fuzzy TOPSIS class

Abstract

With the growing search for sustainable food systems, short food supply chains (SFSC) are emerging as a solution to reduce environmental impacts and promote local economic development. However, the strengthening of these chains faces several challenges that need to be addressed by researchers and decision-makers. This research aims to investigate and prioritize opportunities that significantly impact the obstacles to strengthening SFSCs using multi-criteria decision methods. The research adopts the concept of SFSC, which refers to short food chains that shorten the distance between producers and consumers. It also explores the opportunities and obstacles as factors that can facilitate and hinder the development and implementation of these chains. Using multi-criteria decision methods such as Fuzzy TOPSIS class, PROMETHEE II, and Fuzzy DEMATEL, the research carries out a detailed analysis of the opportunities and obstacles. Data was collected through document analysis and experts’ evaluation. The results highlight obstacles and opportunities with potential for intervention and implementation. The findings not only contribute to the development of SFSCs but also provide a systemic view of agri-food systems, advancing knowledge in the area and guiding strategies to improve the efficiency and sustainability of these systems.