New research suggests that the knowledge of traders, brokers and other “midstream actors” in the global food supply chain could be crucial for long-term sustainability.

Research led by Janina Grabs (former Assistant Professor at Esade and current Associate Professor at University of Basel) and Sophia Carodenuto (Associate Professor at University of Victoria, Canada) has stressed the importance of “midstream actors” in agri-food supply chains. 

The research, published in the journal Nature Sustainability, highlights the power of the midstream actors in the supply chain. These include multinational traders, brokers, managers, but also smaller suppliers and supply chain partners who sit between commodity producers and global food corporations.

Acknowledging the crucial roles of traders, say the 15 authors of the journal article, is essential in supporting sustainability. Their findings include core takeaways for policymakers, civil societies, businesses and researchers. 

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Article published in Esade Do Better