Tackling post-harvest tomato loss in Ethiopia with innovative supply chain solutions

The following case study is part of a set that illustrate the Food Systems Call to Action in motion. Each story demonstrates innovative solutions and collaborative efforts across sectors, geographies, and communities, highlighting how food systems are being transformed.

Context: Reducing post-harvest losses is critical to improving food security, nutritional outcomes, and economic stability in regions reliant on agriculture like Ethiopia.

Partners: Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture, local agricultural universities, various public and private sector stakeholders.
Duration: 2018 - 2021
Location: Ethiopia, specifically targeting supply chains between Maki and Addis Ababa.
Impact achieved:

• 50-75% reduction in post-harvest loss (PHL) of tomatoes when using Reusable Plastic Crates (RPCs) compared to traditional wooden crates.

• Extended shelf life of tomatoes, increasing availability and accessibility in markets.

• Improved Vitamin A intake for infants, young children, and women of reproductive age by reducing nutrient loss in the supply chain.

• Enhanced collaboration among stakeholders through the Alliance platform, fostering trust and partnerships between public and private actors.

• Influenced policy changes to support private sector investment in post-harvest infrastructure and logistics.

Description:
The E-PLAN project, launched by GAIN in 2018, aimed to reduce post-harvest loss of tomatoes in Ethiopia by introducing Reusable Plastic Crates (RPCs) as a sustainable alternative to wooden crates. This initiative focused on reducing damage and spoilage during transport and storage, thereby increasing the supply of nutrient-rich tomatoes in the market. The project involved creating an Alliance of stakeholders from both public and private sectors to address post-harvest loss issues, engaging businesses to improve supply chain efficiencies, and providing training to local businesses and government employees on post-harvest management and technology adoption. Additionally, the project collaborated with local agricultural universities to develop and deliver specialized training curricula, enhancing the capacity of stakeholders and promoting sustainable practices throughout the tomato supply chain.

More info here .

The Food Systems Call to Action is a global initiative that urges non-state actors and governments to take immediate steps to transform food systems by 2030. It highlights the urgent need for resilient, sustainable, and equitable approaches that support food security, protect nature, and address climate change. Through targeted actions and principles, the Call to Action emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity—ensuring that farmers, frontline workers, Indigenous communities, and other key players are at the forefront of decision-making and implementation.