BlogpostEvery bite of food takes a journey. From the land of the farmer to your plate, each step in the food supply chain matters. But how exactly does that journey unfold? And where can companies make a difference?
1. It starts all at the source
The food supply chain begins with the farmer, fisherman, or producer. This is where raw materials are grown of harvested – think coffee beans, cocoa, tea, vegetables or palm oil. At this stage, social and environmental impacts are often highest. Issues like living wages, land use, water consumptions and working conditions come into play.
That’s why companies must know exactly who stands at the beginning of their chain. However, this information is often incomplete – especially when many intermediaries are involved.
2. Trade and procurement
Next comes the trading phase. Cooperatives, or importers buy raw materials, set prices and sign contracts. Much of what happens here remains invisible to both consumers and brands.
Many companies consider certification at this stage. While useful, certification only tells part of the sustainability story.
3. Processing and production
Then raw materials move to factories or production sites. They get roasted, pressed, blended or otherwise transformed into finished products. This step is crucial for food safety, quality and sustainability.
Many companies consider certification at this stage. While useful, certification only tells part if the sustainability story.
4. Distribution and sales
Through logistics networks, products reach wholesalers, supermarkets and food service providers. By now, the distance between the source and the plate often spans thousands of kilometers.
So how transparant does information or origin, pricing and impact remain during this journey? Brands and retailers that take responsibility focus on traceability, due dilligence and improving supplier’s practices.
5. Consumer
Finally, the consumer makes a choice -Whether in-store or online. More and more people want to understand where their food comes from and what values are attached to it. Was it produced fairly? Did the farmer earn a living income? What is the ecological footprint?
Companies that understand their supply chains can share this information more clearly with their customers. In doing so, they build and raise awareness.
Where ImpactBuying comes into the picture
ImpactBuying supports companies at every stage of the chain. We don’t take over the supply chain – we provide insights. We map suppliers, identify risks and uncover opportunities for improvement.
Through data, due diligence processes, stakeholders dialogue and transparency tools, we make the journey from farm to fork not only visible, but also fairer and more sustainable.
Want to take real steps toward a transparent and fair food supply chain? Discover how ImpactBuying helps you improve chain transparency.