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The 2003 reform of the Common Agricultural Policy, which decoupled farm subsidies from production, was expected to increase farmers' market orientation and to positively impact farm productivity. This theoretical effect of decoupling on farm performance has been verified in a few ex-post analyses. However, these studies lack important aspects of farm-level policy impact evaluations. First, they do not use a well-defined counterfactual scenario, second they do not account for farm heterogeneity when measuring performance and third they do not assess farm performance in a comprehensive manner. We address these shortcomings by combining quasi-experimental empirical methods with a latent-class production function. Using UK and French farm-level data, we show that farms indeed operate with distinct production technologies and that decoupling had positive and significant effects on productivity. Our results further show that under decoupling, farmers tend to diversify their businesses while keeping environmental pressure at a similar level as with coupled support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Nutrition incentive programs can increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables and improve food security among Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants and others in the United States. This qualitative study explored SNAP participants' and farmers' market staff's perceptions of and experiences with a pilot supplemental benefit program offered at seven farmers' markets in 2023 as part of the California Fruit and Vegetable Electronic Benefit Transfer Pilot Project. The pilot introduced specific characteristics that differ from more traditional nutrition incentive program dollar-for-dollar match incentive models, particularly the traditional model operating in California. Specific differences included the following: (1) offering a monthly USD 60 supplemental benefit that could be redeemed in a single shopping trip; (2) providing the supplemental benefit as a match that could be spent on any SNAP-eligible item in any retail location (rather than solely on fruits and vegetables at the farmers' market). Methods: We conducted a qualitative, cross-sectional study including seven focus groups with 40 SNAP shoppers and six focus groups with 14 farmers' market staff at six pilot-participating farmers' markets in California. All focus groups were conducted by trained research staff and were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the immersion crystallization method. Results: Our findings include that shoppers appreciated several features of the pilot, particularly the ability to obtain an entire month's supplemental benefit during one shopping trip and the ability to spend the benefit earned on any SNAP-eligible item at any SNAP retailer. Farmers' market staff appreciated that the pilot benefited shoppers but found it difficult to manage due to staff and shopper confusion about the program, increased program utilization, subsequent long lines, and the spending of the earned incentives at other SNAP retailers. Both shoppers and staff reported that the program was difficult to understand. Conclusions: These findings can inform future nutrition incentive program designs to benefit SNAP participants while offering sustainable models for farmers' markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing farmers' adoption of agricultural green production technology (AGPT) is crucial for the green transformation of the agricultural sector. Obtaining additional income is the primary motivation for farmers to adopt AGPTs. Therefore, clarifying the relationship between AGPTs' adoption degree and income will facilitate the possibility of farmers' adoption of AGPTs. Based on research data obtained from 805 citrus farmers in Sichuan Province, this study examines the impact of the degree of AGPT adoption on farmers' income and its mechanisms using the inverse probability weighted regression adjustment (IPWRA) model. These findings indicate: (1) The greater the degree of adoption of AGPTs by farmers, the more pronounced the impact on income increase. Using 1, 2, and 3 AGTs can increase farmers' income from citrus sales by 7.1, 10.5, and 19.8 percentage points, respectively. (2) The adoption of AGPTs leads to increased income through higher yields and sales prices, which offset the incurred costs. (3) Market channels and farmers' operating scales can affect the revenue effect of AGPT adoption. (4) Factors (i.e., education level, physical health status, and cultivation area) can affect farmers' adoption of AGPTs. This study presents policy recommendations based on the above conclusions, aiming to guide the government in promoting AGPTs and advancing agricultural green transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Ethiopia rice crop is considered as a strategic food security crop which is expected to contribute to ensuring food security in the country. Bennch Sheko Zone is one of the major rice growing areas in the South Western Regional State. The study was conducted with specific objectives to investigate factors affecting smallholder farmers' market supply of rice and identify constraints related to rice production in the study area. Two-stage sampling technique was employed to select 119 representative rice-producer households. Descriptive statistics and appropriate econometric models were used to analyze the collected data. Multiple linear regression model used to analyze factors affecting rice market supply. Descriptive result of the study showed, the average annual rice production at the household level was 2.8 tons, of which 70% was supplied to the market. Econometric result showed farm size owned, credit use, annual income, number of oxen owned, and quantity of rice produced were found to be significantly affecting the market supply of rice in a district. Major constraints related to rice production in the district were a lack of proper weed management practices, improved seed, proper method and time of fertilizer application, weak institutional support, disease, and post-harvest handling problems were also important. The research findings suggest that attention should be given to rice production constraints through generation and wide demonstration of demand-driven rice production and post-harvest handling technologies for increased production and productivity to have a better market supply of rice to the market and benefit smallholder farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores how civic food networks (CFN) use public forums to engage with other initiatives and stakeholders in civil society. It develops the concept of social infrastructure to capture the assemblages of discourses, networking and spaces around agrifood forums. The research then examines how social infrastructures support CFNs' capacity to organize communities and challenge power relations in the agrifood system. Two cases are compared: News&Market, a Taiwan-based agrifood news platform which also sells organic food products, and Foodthink, a collective blog created by a farmers' market in China. Both started in the late 2010s but one focuses on policy critiques while the other focuses on market critiques. A comparison finds that CFNs develop different critiques to address the specific challenges facing local alternative food networks (AFNs), and use networking and space creation to promote social dialogue with other stakeholders or build networks across AFNs and NGOs. The paper argues that a social infrastructure such as that built around agrifood forums enables CFNs to shape food democracy and food citizenship practices in new ways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of global rural decline, fostering endogenous momentum through rural transformation to increase farmers' incomes is a challenge that nations worldwide must address. This study utilizes the 2022 "China Rural Micro-Economic Data" to construct a multidimensional rural transformation index system at the village level, encompassing demographic, land, industrial, social, digital, and ecological transformations. This study evaluates the levels of rural transformation across 15 surveyed provinces in China. Furthermore, it empirically examines the impact of rural transformation on farmers' incomes, the underlying mechanisms, and the heterogeneity of different transformation models. The findings are as follows: (1) Coastal economically developed regions exhibit higher levels of rural transformation, while inland agricultural provinces show significant lag; (2) Rural transformation effectively promotes the upgrading of agricultural value chains, increases farmers' market participation, and enhances their access to financial services, thereby boosting farmers' incomes; and (3) The impact of different transformation models on farmers' incomes varies significantly; industrial, social, and demographic transformations contribute most prominently to income growth. While digital transformation shows some positive effects, it remains relatively limited. Land and ecological transformations have yet to demonstrate a significant positive impact on farmers' incomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the United States, there is a high prevalence of diet-related diseases in low-income communities that lack access to fresh produce. Greater access to local farmers’ markets may affect individual and household intake of fruits and vegetables. However, barriers to farmers’ market access remain. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the differences between participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) who regularly shop at farmers’ markets and those who do not. We found that regular farmers’ market shoppers tended to consume on average more fruits and vegetables than WIC participants who did not regularly shop at farmers’ markets. Differences in the importance of various store or market characteristics, barriers to fruit and vegetable consumption, and fruit and vegetable procurement methods were also found.

Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) have emerged from initiatives introduced by farmers and civil society to ensure the organic quality of products by directly involving producers, consumers, and other stakeholders in the guarantee process. While actor participation in PGS provides the foundation for these systems, it also presents challenges, yet little empirical research on this has been undertaken. This study used a framework to analyze four dimensions of participation in PGS: who, how, what kind, and why? The Italian case study of Campi Aperti was qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed by means of: (1) research of internet documents, (2) semi-structured interviews with seven key members and one expert, and (3) an online survey of PGS members (N = 614 members, survey respondents: n = 16 producers and 45 co-producers). Participation took the form of two main activities: management of the guarantee process and organization of farmers’ markets. Discussions are held and decisions made at assemblies and market meetings. The growing number of producers joining the PGS has added to organizational tasks, and hence increased costs. Participants stated that the reasons for joining the Campi Aperti PGS and the benefits of being a member were to gain access to city markets and to send a political message. Building trust between members was an additional benefit cited. Time constraints emerged as the main drawback preventing participation by members, with producers taking on more roles and investing more time in the PGS than co-producers. However, co-producers provided evidence of other ways in which they participated in the PGS, in particular by making purchases and socializing at the markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using an intercept method at two local farmers' markets (n= 192), this study found the notion that local foods taste better and are more nutritious (i.e., lionization) and the notion that buying locally supports and contributes to the local economy and community (i.e., communization), positively influences consumers' attitude towards shopping at their local farmers' market. This positive attitude subsequently influences consumer purchase behavior. Extension professionals can utilize these data-driven results to aid in effective farmers' market promotion by communicating micro-benefits (e.g., nutrition, taste) and macro-benefits (e.g., economic impact) to potential and current farmers' market consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The two main avenues via which agricultural produce is gathered, distributed, and resold in rural India are the regulated markets set up by the State Governments and the sporadic marketplaces that have developed naturally and are unregulated. Under the auspices of extensive regulations that have been formulated and amended periodically by the corresponding state Agricultural Produce Marketing Regulation Act, agricultural produce market committees have been established to promote equitable trade. Since their inception, regulated markets have assisted in reducing market disadvantages; yet, the competitive market structure was not well-foreseen by their legal framework. In an environment of liberalized trade, this paves the way for the market committee to become more manageable and sustainable. Given the dependence of other sectors on agriculture, India has viewed it as a valuable tool for economic progress. The regulated markets are regarded as accountable establishments that carry out all the tasks associated with the selling of products while considering the interests of all final consumers as a whole. The current paper highlights Indian agriculture, with a particular emphasis on the regulated agricultural marketing system and its development, status, and prospects. The report also emphasizes the difficulties and impact of a regulated market on farmers' socioeconomic standing. At the study's conclusion, a number of restrictions that either directly or indirectly impacted the farmers' socioeconomic standing were mentioned. To comprehend the link between the dependent and independent variables, a variety of statistical methods were employed. To arrive at the ultimate outcome, an ex post facto research design was mostly employed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a standard clean production technology, the wide use of green control techniques (GCT) helps improve the quality of agricultural products and protect the environment. However, the level of application of GCT by Chinese farmers is not high. The market, as the ultimate place to realize the value of grain and the returns of grain farmers, plays an essential part in promoting GCT. Based on survey data from grain farmers in Sichuan Province, China, this study used a conditional mixed process (CMP) model to examine the effect of farmers' market participation on their GCT adoption behavior and a mediated effects model to test the impact mechanism. The study further explored the effect of farmers' market participation capability on their GCT adoption behavior. The results showed that (1) farmers' market participation could significantly increase the likelihood of adopting GCT. (2) Market participation could influence farmers' adoption behavior through agricultural income, market information, and green cognition. (3) Further research found that farmers were more likely to adopt GCT if their market participation capability was strong. These findings highlight the fact that developing countries have increased their efforts to encourage farmers to participate in markets and to enhance their market participation capability, thereby facilitating the adoption of GCT by farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Farmers' Markets (FMs) have gained relevance in recent years as increasingly acknowledged to be critical to turn to more equitable food systems, easing agroecological transition, and preserving biocultural heritage. However, the issue of the forms of social and institutional coordination needed to create, organize, manage and promote FMs is a recent topic in the literature, and their governance is still poorly considered. Based on a set of case studies in Tuscany, Italy, this paper intends to contribute to filling this gap by analysing the forms of governance and the role of different stakeholders. The hypothesis is that FMs are social constructions that respond to processes of social and institutional innovation through direct exchanges between producers, consumers and other stakeholders, articulated at both local and non-local level. The aim of the paper is to explore the interactions between stakeholders and the corresponding forms of multi-level governance that emerge. The method for testing the hypotheses is qualitative, through semi-structured interviews to FMs managers and conversations with producers and other stakeholders, conducted between May and August 2022 in Tuscany. The research was complemented by consultation of indirect sources, such as FMs websites and social networks. The results are summarized in the elaboration of a three-dimensional and territorially embedded governance model. The first dimension refers to the management of internal relations between stakeholders within the FM. The second corresponds to the activation of dialogue, negotiation, and agreement with the municipality and other local authorities, and with local farmers' unions. The third type corresponds to vertical flows between the FMs and extraterritorial bodies, i.e., regional government, regional and national farmers' unions and other stakeholder associations. It is important to note that at FMs level, processes of hybridization between the different types of governance are established. The article contributes to the analysis of FMs as economic and social constructions and may be useful for establishing comparative frameworks around institutional and collective action dimensions, multi-actor and multilevel studies of governance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Flies are acknowledged as vectors of diseases transmitted through mechanical means and represent a significant risk to human health. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of enteropathogens carried by flies in Pudong New Area to inform strategies for preventing and controlling flies. Methods: Samples were collected from various locations in the area using cage trapping techniques between April and November 2021, encompassing various habitats such as parks, residential areas, restaurants, and farmers' markets. The main fly species were identified using cryomicrography and taxonomic enumeration, with 20 samples per tube collected from different habitats. Twenty-five enteropathogens were screened using GI_Trial v3 TaqManTM microbial arrays. Results: A total of 3,875 flies were collected from 6,400 placements, resulting in an average fly density of 0.61 flies per cage. M. domestica were the most common species at 39.85%, followed by L. sericata at 16.57% and B. peregrina at 13.14%. Out of 189 samples, 93 tested positive for enteropathogens, with nine different pathogens being found. 12.70% of samples exclusively had parasites, a higher percentage than those with only bacteria or viruses. The study found that M. domestica had fewer enteropathogens than L. sericata and B. peregrina, which primarily harbored B. hominis instead of bacteria and viruses such as E. coli, Astrovirus, and Sapovirus. During spring testing, all three fly species exhibited low rates of detecting enteropathogens. M. domestica were found in residential areas with the highest number of pathogen species, totaling six. In contrast, L. sericata and B. peregrina were identified in farmers' markets with the highest number of pathogen species, totaling six and seven, respectively. Conclusions: Flies have the potential to serve as vectors for the transmission of enteropathogens, thereby posing a substantial risk to public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 15 studies highlighted in this special issue collectively underscore the significant impacts of market participation on farmers' well-being, income, poverty reduction, dietary diversity, and rural economic growth. They also delve into the importance of marketing channel choice and the role of e-commerce in enhancing farmers' market linkages. In addition, they address farmers' preferences for market access interventions and the examination of market power within the agricultural industry, especially in low-income countries. The key findings include: (1) Market participation is critical for improving farmers' subjective and objective well-being, with studies demonstrating positive impacts on income, poverty reduction, and dietary diversity; (2) The choice of marketing channels significantly influences income, with evidence suggesting online sales can substantially increase farmers' earnings; (3) E-commerce plays a pivotal role in connecting farmers to broader markets, leading to income growth and enhanced market visibility; (4) Understanding and addressing farmers' preferences for market access through interventions like systematization policies and joint ventures can facilitate better market integration and support inclusive business models; (5) Analysis of market power within the primary foods industry reveals rising markups, particularly affecting low-income countries. These findings suggest that policies and interventions aiming to improve market access, promote e-commerce, and consider farmers' preferences and market power dynamics can significantly impact farmers' incomes, poverty levels, and overall rural economic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural markets remain major issue downgrading root and tuber crop farmers who form the mainstream of the agricultural producers in Malawi. Recent evidence however reveals that orange‐fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) (Ipomea batatas) is currently being sold in produce markets along with the non‐orange varieties, sometimes in differentiated form in Malawi. The main objective of this study was to examine factors affecting market participation of sweet potato farmers in southern region of Malawi. Using a double‐hurdle model, this paper analyzed both the factors affecting farmer decision to participate and the extent/intensity of participation in market. The first tier of the double hurdle focused on decision to participate in the market using probit model and the second tier addressed factors affecting intensity of participation using truncated normal regression model. The paper used data collected from 360 farmers in southern districts of Malawi. Out of 360, 146 farmers had grown OFSP in the season preceding the survey. Double hurdle results indicate that farm size, output, age of a farmer (household head), and early maturing trait significantly determined decision to participate in the market. Further, results on intensity of participation indicate that access to market training, farm size, asset value, and output positively determined the intensity and negatively determined by distance to main market and gender of a farmer (household head). Based on the research findings, higher output levels and early maturing trait were found to increase smallholder farmer market participation. It is therefore recommended that strategies aimed at increasing household capacity to produce surplus produce through market tailored extension messages and productivity enhancement technologies could be highly effective in fostering smallholders' participation in commercial markets. Again, enhanced capacity building of research institutions to breed sweet potato varieties based on market demand is pivotal for increased market participation. Furthermore, research suggests that improving smallholder farmers' access to market price information, asset value, and farm size can help increase their intensity in the market. Therefore, it is critical for policymakers to holistically comprehend these socioeconomic factors in order to address the issue of smallholder farm households' decisions about market participation and the degree to which they participate. Core Ideas: Orange fleshed sweet potato is currently being sold along with non‐orange varieties, sometimes in differentiated.Decision to participate in market is significantly influenced by output, farm size, age early maturing attribute.Market intensity is determined by access to training, distance to market, farm size, gender, asset value and output.Breeding programs should integrate both sensory and agronomic traits such as early maturity and good taste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing the productivity of crops through the adoption and uptake of technologies improves farmers' socioeconomic status through increased market participation. However, smallholder farmers in Sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) face a myriad of challenges that make it difficult for them to access and participate in the output markets. Like most SSA countries, the uptake of improved technologies is still low in Malawi. This study examines the relationship between the uptake of improved potato seed and donor‐funded training on market participation. Using secondary data from 393 potato farmers in Malawi, the study applied a triple‐hurdle model to examine the extent to which such interventions and other socioeconomic and institutional factors influence market participation. The results showed that male‐headed farm households, more experienced farmers, and those who participated in International Potato Center (CIP)‐led training were likely to market their potato output. Further, farmers closer to urban centers, those with off‐farm income, those who had participated in potato training, use of improved potato seed, and quantity of output positively influenced the decision to sell in high‐value markets such as supermarkets. On the other hand, land size, ownership of transport equipment, group membership, and access to credit had positive effects on the amount of potatoes sold, while the distance to the markets reduced the quantity sold. Based on these findings, there is a need to set up a seed system within the local communities where farmers can easily access the seeds. Additionally, there is a need for a collaborative effort between public and private sector stakeholders to invest in the production of improved potato seeds that would help to address the shortfall in supply. Finally, institutional support interventions that utilize farmer groups as a key entry point in sustaining training on improved potato seed, relaxing credit constraints, and promoting diversification into off‐farm enterprises would enhance potato production and marketing. Core Ideas: Better access to improved potato seed is essential for food security.Inadequate training and seed supply constrain potato production.Access to good seed and training are key to market participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines restaurant managements' (owners, managers, or the chefs) perceptions, motivations, and constraints in buying local food ingredients from local farmers' market vendors (farmer vendors) in a study conducted in Vancouver, Canada and Christchurch, New Zealand. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with restaurants (31 in Vancouver and 28 in Christchurch). Results revealed that purchasing local food from farmers' market vendors was perceived as beneficial by restaurants, but they experienced challenges with purchasing. This study further presented evidence that restaurants satisfaction with wholesale distributors is an important purchasing factor in local food purchasing decisions while sustainable production products were not the main motivation among restaurants in both the samples. In the light of empirical findings, theoretical and practical implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetable farmers are faced with computational and informational restrictions when making marketing decisions. Fresh produce markets in South Africa lack an efficient approach to supply chain management, from the farmers to the consumers. Improving market access can incentivise smallholder farmers to scale up their production. The present paper investigates factors influencing smallholder vegetable farmers' choice of market channels in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. A structured questionnaire and a multi-stage sampling technique were used to select 149 vegetable farmers. Multivariate probit regression and descriptive statistics were used for analysis. The results show that most sampled vegetable farmers in the study area sell their vegetable produce to traditional, wholesale, and retail outlets compared to other outlets. The study found that vegetable farmers can substitute one market with the other. Various socio-economic characteristics, transaction costs, asset ownership, membership of farm organisations, and access to extension services influence the selection choice. The study recommends intensive education and training to capacitate smallholder farmers through extension officers and farm organisations to enable farmers to understand and meet the requirements of high-value markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agroecological practices can be used to optimise ecological functions and improve the health of agroecosystems. The present study aimed to determine the effects of two agroecological systems (AG and AGSPP) on soil biodiversity and ecosystem services in tropical market gardens. The AG (agroecological) cropping system allows the use of organic phytosanitary products, unlike the second one (AGSPP, agroecological without phytosanitary products). The cropping systems were established in the open field and compared in terms of (i) soil fauna, (ii) soil fertility, (iii) soil aggregation, (iv) pest regulation, and (v) crop production. A total of eighteen months after the establishment of the experiment, the macrofaunal communities of the two cropping systems were significantly different. The AGSPP cropping system was characterised by a higher abundance of predators, a better soil structure, a higher tomato fruit set rate, and a lower pest proliferation. The increase in plant diversity and the non-use of phytosanitary products could modify the macrofaunal communities and, consequently, the provision of some ecosystem services. We also observed an effect of repellent and host plants on pest control in both systems, promoting high crop production. Overall, we showed that small changes in agroecological practices can have positive effects on soil biodiversity, pest regulation, and crop production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable food systems are an important aspect of curbing the impacts of climate change and meeting targets of global food security. It is increasingly recognised that a wider suite of indicators is required to assess sustainability beyond the traditional environmental factors. This study focuses on Aberdeenshire, an atypical area of the UK where soils, climate and topography are not conducive to diverse or large-scale fruit and vegetable production, which in other areas, are a dominant feature of farmers' markets. Nevertheless, Aberdeenshire needs economic diversification to offset some of the impacts of the decline in the oil and gas industry. Face-to-face questionnaires were conducted across Aberdeenshire farmers' markets in summer 2022 to assess buyer and seller perceptions of the environmental, social and economic benefits of local food products. There was a positive attitude to local products with the majority of buyers perceiving the quality, nutrition, organic status and use of sustainable farming practices to be high. Conversely, the main products bought, baked goods and meat, are associated with negative impacts on the environment and/or human health. We discuss why, despite these shortfalls, farmers' markets provide a valuable opportunity to distribute and promote high quality wares to support the local economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Smallholder farmers in Tanzania were investigated in this paper to determine the dimensions and influence of psychological contracts on smallholder farmers' decisions to participate in the market. Design/methodology/approach: Data were collected through structured questionnaires, of which a cross-sectional design was conducted in central Tanzania, the Dodoma region in which 467 smallholder farmers were surveyed. First, a preliminary Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was conducted by involving psychological contracts and market participation items derived from previous studies. This was followed by the Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) to verify the items obtained in the EFA. The regression analysis was then performed to test the causal effects of psychological contracts on market participation among smallholder farmers. Findings: The path analysis revealed that transactional, relational, and ideological contracts have a positive and statistically significant impact on the participation of smallholder farmers in the market. Therefore, smallholder farmers have own set of expectations for participating in the marketplace. As a result, smallholder farmers' relationships with market participation decisions can be strengthened. Research limitations/implications: This study covered only smallholder farmers. However, future studies can include large-scale farmers, because psychological contracts and market participation difficulties also apply to them. This may increase the generalizability of the findings. Originality/value: Past studies have not extensively covered the psychological contracts in smallholder farming, especially in market participation. Based on prior empirical and theoretical research from other disciplines, the findings of this study contribute to a better understanding of the psychological contract framework and the significance of multiple psychological obligations between smallholder farmers and market management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The paper aimed to examine the determinants of agricultural commercialisation of farmers and measured its commercialisation level in the highland of Vietnam. Design/methodology/approach: A sample size of 360 was randomly chosen from a total population of 5,771 farmers, and a structured questionnaire was developed to collect data. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including linear regression analysis, were used to analyse the data. Findings: The descriptive statistics showed that the average commercialisation level of farmers was 56.3%. The regression model result indicated that number of off-farm income sources, farmer's risk perception, farming practices, number of agricultural activities, motorbikes value, ethnicity, distance from the city centre, number of customers, non-traded inputs value, participation in training programmes, family size, farm size, mobile phones value, traded inputs value, land tenure, distance from the local market and education of household head significantly affected agricultural commercialisation of farmers. Originality/value: Any development strategies that assist farmers in adopting commercial farming in the highland of developing countries should consider these determinants. Peer review: The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-03-2022-0161 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) have emerged from initiatives introduced by farmers and civil society to ensure the organic quality of products by directly involving producers, consumers, and other stakeholders in the guarantee process. While actor participation in PGS provides the foundation for these systems, it also presents challenges, yet little empirical research on this has been undertaken. This study used a framework to analyze four dimensions of participation in PGS: who, how, what kind, and why? The Italian case study of Campi Aperti was qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed by means of: (1) research of internet documents, (2) semi-structured interviews with seven key members and one expert, and (3) an online survey of PGS members (N = 614 members, survey respondents: n = 16 producers and 45 co-producers). Participation took the form of two main activities: management of the guarantee process and organization of farmers’ markets. Discussions are held and decisions made at assemblies and market meetings. The growing number of producers joining the PGS has added to organizational tasks, and hence increased costs. Participants stated that the reasons for joining the Campi Aperti PGS and the benefits of being a member were to gain access to city markets and to send a political message. Building trust between members was an additional benefit cited. Time constraints emerged as the main drawback preventing participation by members, with producers taking on more roles and investing more time in the PGS than co-producers. However, co-producers provided evidence of other ways in which they participated in the PGS, in particular by making purchases and socializing at the markets.

What barriers and opportunities did low-income consumers face in shopping at farmers markets during COVID-19? To answer this question, we observed purchasing practices in Sonoma and Marin counties in Northern California, organized focus groups, and analyzed data from CalFresh and Market Match, which are public programs to support food access. We found that expanded federal food benefits during the pandemic increased financial access to farmers markets for low-income consumers, resulting in increased CalFresh and Market Match sales. While some consumers perceived outdoor shopping as safer, others were unsure whether farmers markets were strictly following pandemic precautions. Further, broader changes to shopping practices as a result of the pandemic indirectly impacted consumers' interest in shopping at farmers markets. To make farmers markets more accessible now and in preparation for future disasters, we recommend increasing awareness of farmers markets among low-income communities, strengthening public nutrition benefits that can be used at farmers markets, and linking public and nonprofit organizations that promote access to healthy food with farmers markets.

The paper explores how Slovak consumers perceive the value of food, sold by different retail formats (especially farmers’ markets and supermarkets), in terms of the quality, price, and healthiness. The aim of this paper is to evaluate consumer perceptions regarding global and local types of retail stores where they buy food most frequently. In the study, the segmentation of consumers by generation, income, and type of residence is provided. From the methodological point of view, Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests are used to test hypotheses. According to the sample of respondents (n = 1,004), large-scale stores do not offer healthier and higher-quality food. This perception, however, varies based on the income of the consumer groups. On the other hand, respondents perceive that food sold at farmers’ markets is healthier and of higher quality than food in conventional stores. They do not perceive that food sold at farmers’ markets is cheaper than food in conventional stores.

Background/Objectives: Nutrition incentive programs can increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables and improve food security among Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants and others in the United States. This qualitative study explored SNAP participants’ and farmers’ market staff’s perceptions of and experiences with a pilot supplemental benefit program offered at seven farmers’ markets in 2023 as part of the California Fruit and Vegetable Electronic Benefit Transfer Pilot Project. The pilot introduced specific characteristics that differ from more traditional nutrition incentive program dollar-for-dollar match incentive models, particularly the traditional model operating in California. Specific differences included the following: (1) offering a monthly USD 60 supplemental benefit that could be redeemed in a single shopping trip; (2) providing the supplemental benefit as a match that could be spent on any SNAP-eligible item in any retail location (rather than solely on fruits and vegetables at the farmers’ market). Methods: We conducted a qualitative, cross-sectional study including seven focus groups with 40 SNAP shoppers and six focus groups with 14 farmers’ market staff at six pilot-participating farmers’ markets in California. All focus groups were conducted by trained research staff and were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the immersion crystallization method. Results: Our findings include that shoppers appreciated several features of the pilot, particularly the ability to obtain an entire month’s supplemental benefit during one shopping trip and the ability to spend the benefit earned on any SNAP-eligible item at any SNAP retailer. Farmers’ market staff appreciated that the pilot benefited shoppers but found it difficult to manage due to staff and shopper confusion about the program, increased program utilization, subsequent long lines, and the spending of the earned incentives at other SNAP retailers. Both shoppers and staff reported that the program was difficult to understand. Conclusions: These findings can inform future nutrition incentive program designs to benefit SNAP participants while offering sustainable models for farmers’ markets.

A core assumption across many disciplines is that producers enter market exchange relationships for economic reasons. This research examines an overlooked factor; namely, the socioemotional benefits of selling the fruits of one's labor. Specifically, the authors find that individuals selling their products interpret sales as a signal from the market that serves as a source of self-validation, thus increasing their happiness above and beyond any monetary rewards from those sales. This effect highlights an information asymmetry that is opposite to what is found in traditional signaling theory. That is, the authors find that customers have information about product quality that they signal to the producer, validating the producer's skill level. Furthermore, the sales-as-signal effect is moderated by characteristics of the purchase transaction that determine the signal strength of sales: The effect is attenuated when product choice does not reflect a deliberate decision and is amplified when buyers incur higher monetary costs. In addition, sales have a stronger effect on happiness than alternative, nonmonetary forms of market signals such as likes. Finally, the sales-as-signal effect is more pronounced when individuals sell their self-made (vs. other-made) products and affects individuals' happiness beyond the happiness gained from producing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and virulome of Listeria in fresh produce distributed in urban communities. Methods: A total of 432 fresh produce samples were collected from farmer's markets in Michigan and West Virginia, USA, resulting in 109 pooled samples. Listeria spp. were isolated and L. monocytogenes was subjected to genoserogrouping by PCR and genotyping by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) and core-genome multi-locus sequence typing (cgMLST) were conducted for clonal identification. Results: Forty-eight of 109 samples (44.0%) were contaminated with Listeria spp. L. monocytogenes serotype 1/2a and 4b were recovered from radishes, potatoes, and romaine lettuce. Four clonal complexes (CC) were identified and included hypervirulent CC1 (ST1) and CC4 (ST219) of lineage I as well as CC7 (ST7) and CC11 (ST451) of lineage II. Clones CC4 and CC7 were present in the same romaine lettuce sample. CC1 carried Listeria pathogenicity island LIPI-1 and LIPI-3 whereas CC4 contained LIPI-1, LIPI-3, and LIPI-4. CC7 and CC11 had LIPI-1 only. Discussion: Due to previous implication in outbreaks, L. monocytogenes hypervirulent clones in fresh produce pose a public health concern in urban communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines whether the Tanzanian subsidy for inorganic fertilizers and improved seeds encourages farmers to participate in the input and grain markets. Using six waves from 2008–2009 to 2020–2021 of the National Panel Survey, we investigated whether the subsidy affected farmers' purchases and expenditures for all conceivable inputs, including nonsubsidized inputs (organic fertilizers, traditional seeds, pesticides/herbicides, labor, and capital). Subsequently, we estimated the subsidy's impact on the probability of farmers selling crops and their sales revenue. In the input markets, we found that improved seeds, rather than inorganic fertilizers, played a major role in farmers' market activities. Beneficiaries who received subsidized seeds were more likely to purchase pesticides/herbicides, hire more labor, and borrow oxen and tractors to make their farmland suitable for the growth of improved seeds. In crop markets, we found that receiving both subsidized fertilizers and seeds increased the probability of farmers selling maize or paddy nearly threefold relative to the receipt of only subsidized fertilizer. Moreover, legume sales revenue also increased among seed beneficiaries through intercropping with maize and paddy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L). Moench] is a climate-resilient cereal crop that thrives in harsh environments where other cereal crops cannot perform well. In Ethiopia, sorghum can grow in a wide range of altitudes ranging from lowlands to highlands. It is currently serving as an important food security crop, and it is used for food, animal feed, and its stalks for constructing rural hut houses. Despite such merits, the production and productivity of the crop is hampered by a lack of acceptable sorghum varieties meeting the requirements of farmers and the market. Objective: The study aimed to identify and develop high-yielding, stable, and disease-tolerant sorghum variety with farmer and market-preferred seed color for wider production and use. Materials and Methods: Twenty sorghum genotypes including standard check variety (Bonsa) were evaluated using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications at Bako, Gute, and Bilo areas during 2017-2019 under rain-fed conditions. All agronomic practices were applied per recommendation. Data were collected on phenological, agronomic, and yield traits, then subjected to analysis of variance. Results: The results of the study have revealed that there were significant variations among the tested sorghum genotypes, with [ETSL 101259 (Acc. 200161)] named "Jabaa" being the most superior to the other genotypes with a mean grain yield of 3.9 t ha-1 and other merits. Additive Main effect and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) and Genotype and Genotype by Environment (GGE) bi-plot also indicated that this genotype [ETSL101259 (Acc. 200161)] was found to be the most stable and high-yielding among the tested genotypes. In addition, Jabaa is a white-seeded variety exhibiting disease tolerance and meeting the criteria for farmers' preference and market demand. Furthermore, "Jabaa" showed about a 44.4% yield advantage over the best standard check variety, Bonsa. Conclusion: The results of the present study revealed that, among the tested genotypes, Jabaa [ETSL101259 (Acc. 200161)] was found to be a high yielder, stable and tolerant to sorghum foliar and panicle diseases, and resistant to bird attacks and lodging. Furthermore, the variety's white grain color has a high demand in the market and is an additional merit. Having such merits, the Ethiopian Variety Release Standing Committee has officially approved [ETSL101259 (Acc. 200161)] release of the new variety with the breeder name "Jabaa" for wider cultivation and use in Ethiopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This scientific undertaking meticulously inspected chlorpyrifos degradation kinetics when interacts with assorted organic water-soluble fertilizer formulations. Through rigorous field experimentation, we evaluated the modulatory effects of organic water-soluble fertilizers on the kinetics of pesticide degradation. Under specific conditions, organic water-soluble fertilizers can promote the degradation of pesticides. The integration of distinct fertilizer dilutions conspicuously enhanced degradation, alluding to intricate concentration-dependent mechanisms. In our quest to decipher the underlying mechanisms, we delved into both the biochemical and physicochemical facets. Notably, we monitored plant peroxidase activity across varying concentrations of these fertilizers throughout the investigative period. Temporal tracking displayed escalated plant peroxidase activity, mirroring bolstered detoxification. The results of the UV degradation experiment showed no significant difference in the acaricide degradation rate, regardless of the presence or absence of organic water-soluble fertilizers. However, illuminationinduced degradation remained unperturbed by fertilization. Simulated rainwater cleansing was enacted on farmer's market produce, spanning crucifers, asters, chenopods, and amaranths. Our assays pertaining to washing elucidated the capability of organic water-soluble fertilizers to curtail pesticide residues across representative vegetable taxa. Fertilizer supplementation substantially reduced chlorpyrifos residuals, especially in crucifers. This inquiry underscores the inherent botanical mechanisms of detoxification, which, when augmented by judicious fertilizer supplementation, culminate in the diminution of chlorpyrifos pesticide residues. While promising, extensive multi-crop trials are required to optimize assimilation strategies. Harnessing the intrinsic synergy between agricultural enrichment and pest mitigation, as expounded in this study, heralds a paradigm shift towards sustainable agriculture, ensuring both food security and ecological stewardship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Despite the abundance of small-scale farms in the USA and their importance for both rural economic development and food availability, the extensive research on small business management and entrepreneurship has mostly neglected the agricultural context, leaving many of these farms' business challenges unexplored. The authors focus on informing a specific decision faced by small farm managers: selling directly to consumers (i.e. farmer's markets) versus selling through aggregators. By collecting historical data and a series of interviews with industry experts, the authors employ simulation methodology to offer a framework that advises how small-scale farmers can allocate their product across these two channels to increase revenue in a given season. The results, which are relevant for operations management, small business management and entrepreneurship literature, can help small-scale farmers improve their performance and compete against their larger counterparts. Design/methodology/approach: The authors rely on historical and interview data from key industry players (an aggregator and a small farm manager) to design a simulation analysis that determines which factors influence season-long farm revenue performance under varying strategies of channel allocation and commodity production. Findings: The model suggests that farm managers should plan to evenly split their production between the two distribution channels, but if an even split is not possible, they should plan to keep a larger percentage in the nonaggregator (farmers' market/direct) channel. Further, the authors find that farmers can benefit significantly from a strong aggregator channel customer base, which suggests that farmers should promote and advertise the aggregator channel even if they only use it for a limited amount of their product. Originality/value: The authors integrate small business management and operations management literature to study a widely understudied context and present practical implications for the performance of small-scale farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Farmers' markets can enhance local food tourism experiences, as well as benefit regions and businesses that operate within these markets. With the impact of COVID-19 reducing international travel, domestic and local tourism is predicted to increase due to a desire to support local economies. While it has been established that visitors who shop at farmers' markets do so for pro-social reasons, the current study examines the unintended consequences of these pro-social behaviors. We apply 'moral licensing' and regulatory focus theory to explain how a person's pro-social behavior gives a temporary boost to their positive self-image which subsequently gives them a 'licence' to act in a deviant manner. We examine the effect of licensing and consider individual differences in promotion focus to test whether some visitors are more prone to deviant behavior than others. This research assists in identifying the unintended outcomes for the local food tourism sector through licensing and provides suggestions on how to diminish this behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence from the literature emphasize the role of Farmers’ Markets (FMs) in enhancing economic benefits for both producers and consumers, improving social outcomes and benefiting the environment. Therefore, FMs can be conceived not just as an alternative to the market, but also as a specific way of shaping producers-consumers relationships, which influences and is at the same time the result of their respective selling-buying models. This article aims at investigating the hypothesis of FMs as a specific and structural form of producers-consumers relationships, and collecting evidence on their perceptions, motivations and behaviour at the markets, and on the impact of selling and purchasing at these FMs on sustainability dimensions. For this purpose, we selected a sample of FMs in the north of Tuscany (Italy) and submitted two in-person semi-structured questionnaires, to both producers and consumers. The methodology was based on actors’ self-assessment supported by guiding interviewers. Results showed how producers and consumers participating in FMs, although with differences across FMs types, do not only activate market relationships, but share, learn and build values together. Indeed, FMs are perceived by the actors involved as a structural and alternative framework, giving space and shaping alternative producers-consumers connections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purchasing, consumption, and health data from 3,073 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Shoppers (SNAP) at 77 U.S. farmers' markets (FMs) are reported. Descriptive and bivariate analyses indicate SNAP households spent $345/month on all groceries and $153.76/month on all fruit and vegetable (FV) purchases; daily FV consumption significantly correlated with percentage of household expenditures on FV and household FV dollars/month. Females and Hispanics spent significantly more on FV. 82% of participants were food insecure and 26.1% reported fair/poor health. Average BMI was 28.5. Findings suggest SNAP FM shoppers have unique FV expenditure and consumption patterns, despite higher food insecurity, meriting future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food environments of three farmers' markets and 12 grocery stores located in five Mississippi Delta towns were measured and descriptively compared. Availability, source, quality, and price of 13 fruits and 32 vegetables were measured from June 2019 to March 2020. Availability was lower for farmers' markets than grocery stores (29 vs. 39 items) with 27 (93%) farmers' markets produce sourced locally and four (10%) grocery store produce sourced locally. Prices were higher for farmers' markets than grocery stores with four exceptions. Compared to grocery stores, farmers' markets had less variety and higher prices, but locally sourced produce were more prevalent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]