The Circular Economy of the Food Bank Supply Chain in Bandung City, West Java

Food banks play a crucial role in reducing food waste and addressing food vulnerability. Their operations involve an efficient supply chain that collects surplus food, processes it, and distributes it to those in need. This aligns with the goals of a circular economy, aiming to minimize food crises. This research aims to understand the supply chain of the Food Bank Bandung and analyze the implementation of circular economy principles within its supply chain. The study employs qualitative methods, with data gathered through interviews conducted with representatives from the Food Bank located in Bandung City. The collected information was used to design a comprehensive supply chain model, which was then meticulously analyzed. The analysis reveals that the Food Bank in Bandung effectively implements a circular economy by transforming surplus food, which would otherwise go to waste, into consumable items. Furthermore, the food bank adopts circular economy concepts by providing inedible food to Black Soldier Fly (BSF) cultivation for maggot consumption, which then can be used as an alternative source of protein for animal feed. The findings of the study show how circular economy practices can be integrated into food bank operations. By analyzing the circular economy approach in the Food Bank of Bandung, this research contributes to the existing body of knowledge and provides a foundation for future studies, offering a more extensive dataset for researchers and practitioners in the field.