Food Waste Quantification and Management Practices Along the Tomato Value Chain in Kano State

Food waste along the tomato value chain in northern Nigeria represents one of the most significant sources of economic loss and environmental burden in the agricultural sector, with estimates suggesting that up to 50 percent of harvested tomatoes are lost before reaching consumers. This study quantifies food waste at five stages of the tomato value chain in Kano State, North West Nigeria, covering farm production, primary collection, market wholesale, retail, and household consumption. A sequential stage-by-stage weighing and recording methodology was applied at each stage, with data collected from 50 farmers, 20 wholesalers, 30 retailers, and 40 households over two growing seasons. Causes of waste at each stage were assessed through structured interviews and visual observation. Results indicated that total chain-level waste was 48 percent of harvested tonnage, with the farm-to-primary-market stage accounting for 28 percent due to transportation damage and lack of cold storage. Market and retail waste was attributed primarily to temperature management failures. A cost-benefit analysis evaluated the economic value of waste reduction interventions including pack-house grading, evaporative coolers, and tomato paste processing. The study draws on the food systems sustainability literature and contributes quantitative evidence for policy interventions. Findings are intended for the Kano State Agricultural and Rural Development Authority, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, and the tomato processing industry. Keywords: food waste, tomato value chain, post-harvest loss, Kano State, food systems