Differences in quality perceptions among actors in the Mindanao vegetable supply chain

Abstract

Correct information is vital in maintaining balance and efficiency along the supply chain and in developing appropriate marketing strategies. To make the correct decisions, all members of the vegetable supply chain need information on end users preferences. This study sought to determine if smallholder vegetable farmers and market intermediaries could accurately predict what consumers required. Preferences for vegetables among household consumers in Mindanao were compared with the perceptions of vegetable farmers and market intermediaries. Attributes such as variety, size and shape, color, taste, freshness and freedom from pests, diseases, physical damage and defects were compared. Results revealed significant differences between the perceptions of vegetable farmers and market intermediaries about the nature of the consumer demand. Their divergent, often erroneous, ideas and concepts about vegetable quality contributed to waste and inefficiency in the Mindanao vegetable supply chain.