Food waste-reducing platforms: unpacking the barriers and strategies to their implementation in Brazil

Food waste is a global concern that urges the development of multiple strategies to be tackled. Food waste-reducing platforms (FWRP) have emerged as a technological solution in different countries, connecting different parties along the food supply chains to reduce waste by redistributing surplus or non-commercial food. However, most studies refer to FWRP in high-income countries, neglecting the realities of low- and middle-income countries. In this context, this study aims to fill this gap, identifying and exploring the main barriers and challenges to circularity faced by Brazilian innovators of FWRP and the strategies adopted to overcome them. Our methodology explores case examples of Brazilian FWRP based on semi-structured interviews with the digital platform’s founders. Technology plays an important role; however, other factors also appear as critical barriers to implementing these solutions in Brazil. Our study identified cultural, financial, organizational, institutional, and technological barriers in line with the literature. These platforms cannot be seen only as mere digital marketplaces but as “transforming and connecting agents.” The innovators realized they must adapt business models to promote strategies to minimize the identified barriers. The development of FWRP cannot be limited to replicating technological solutions and business models implemented in other countries and regions.