Supply chain management in food processing sector: experience from India

Food processing is an important link between agriculture sector and the consumers. Importance of logistics and supply chain management is increasing at the global level especially in food processing. Present study is an attempt to explore the status of supply chain management in food processing industry of Punjab. Fifty food processing units were included in the study. Survey queries focused on a range of issues such as recognition of supply chain management as a separate functional area, use of information technology applications, and use of cold chain facilities. An attempt was also made to explore supply chain management practices adopted by food processing units. Results indicate that logistics and supply chain management is still in its infancy in food processing sector. There is considerable scope improving supply chain management practices especially in context of information quality, and postponement.