Article: Utilising the potential of circularity: novel strategies for minimising food loss and waste in the circular economy Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Management and Informatics (IJSAMI) 2026 Vol.12 No.2 pp.135 - 163 Abstract: This study examines novel strategies to tackle food loss and waste in the food industry, with a focus on resource efficiency and sustainability. It aims to promote sustainability in the food sector by applying circular economy principles. The research prioritises agri-food industry circular practice drivers using literature review and expert opinions. The methodology uses interpretive structural modelling and analytic hierarchy process to rank fourteen key drivers from a comprehensive literature survey. The findings suggest that policy factors, such as favourable legislation and accurate demand forecasting, are of paramount significance. Additional notable factors contributing to the overall progress are water recycling, the integration of renewable energy, and the use of sustainable packaging. The study emphasises the crucial importance of systemic methodologies and cooperation among stakeholders in circular food supply chains. The framework contributes by offering an organised plan for drivers, policy recommendations, and future research directions to advance circularity in agri-food systems. Inderscience Publishers - linking academia, business and industry through research

Title: Utilising the potential of circularity: novel strategies for minimising food loss and waste in the circular economy

Authors: ShivamKrishn Agrawal; Shrish Singh; Akhilesh Shukla; Bipin Kandpal

Addresses: DIT University, Mussoorie, Diversion Road, Makka Wala, Uttarakhand 248009, Dehradun, India ' AGBS Amity University, Amity Road Sector 125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India ' Pandit Dindayal Energy University, Knowledge Corridor, Raisan Village, Gujarat, India ' Uttaranchal University, Prem Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India

Abstract: This study examines novel strategies to tackle food loss and waste in the food industry, with a focus on resource efficiency and sustainability. It aims to promote sustainability in the food sector by applying circular economy principles. The research prioritises agri-food industry circular practice drivers using literature review and expert opinions. The methodology uses interpretive structural modelling and analytic hierarchy process to rank fourteen key drivers from a comprehensive literature survey. The findings suggest that policy factors, such as favourable legislation and accurate demand forecasting, are of paramount significance. Additional notable factors contributing to the overall progress are water recycling, the integration of renewable energy, and the use of sustainable packaging. The study emphasises the crucial importance of systemic methodologies and cooperation among stakeholders in circular food supply chains. The framework contributes by offering an organised plan for drivers, policy recommendations, and future research directions to advance circularity in agri-food systems.

Keywords: circular economy; sustainable food packaging; food waste; water recycling; carbon footprint reduction.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSAMI.2026.152795

International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Management and Informatics, 2026 Vol.12 No.2, pp.135 - 163

Received: 30 Jun 2024
Accepted: 24 Aug 2024
Published online: 13 Apr 2026 *

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Title: Utilising the potential of circularity: novel strategies for minimising food loss and waste in the circular economy

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