Design of multi-echelon multi-fruit supply chain network considering multi-compartment reefer trucks to ensure food security

Purpose The four pillars of food security are availability, accessibility, utilization and stability. In order to facilitate food security, an attempt is made to design a fruit supply chain network (FSCN) considering multi-compartment reefer trucks (MCRT) to reduce total supply chain costs. This in turn increases affordability, decreases food loss and increases availability, which further helps in improving food security. Design/methodology/approach A mixed integer non-linear programming (MNILP) model is developed to minimize the overall cost considering MCRT and the same is solved by a heuristic approach. A real-world case study is conducted to test the robustness of the model. Findings There is a considerable cost saving with the new proposed model (MCRT). The number of trucks used is drastically reduced when the dedicated truck is replaced with MCRT. Overall, the design of the FSCN not only improves food security by lowering the total supply chain cost but also shows a high impact on sustainability. Since the proposed model is a mathematical formulation, the same model can be applied to other perishable commodities like vegetables. Research limitations/implications The proposed FSCN still requires more intermediaries to be added for more practicality. The model will be suitable for emerging markets mainly because the food supply chain sector is not completely organized. Originality/value This study is one of the initial studies in the context of facility location and FSCN optimization, specifically focusing on the inclusion of capacitated DCs. This study has the potential to assist supply chain managers in achieving sustainability by optimizing location decisions, inventory levels and movement between facilities. This study provides a valuable contribution towards the sustainable development goal of zero hunger (food security) by increasing affordability for low-income people.