A comparative analysis of the implementation of circular economy practices in the food industry in Brazil, Ecuador, and Colombia

This paper seeks to compare the circular economy (CE) practices adopted in the food industries of Brazil, Ecuador, and Colombia using an assessment tool designed to identify the progress in circular practices. A checklist was applied to assess the circular economy level (CEL) in each case study in three countries (Brazil, Colombia, and Ecuador) and six food industries. This tool consists of eight variables and 79 items. AHP was used to estimate the weights of each variable. The CEL evaluation criteria obtained from the scale variables were categorized according to the scores obtained for each of them. The levels to implement the CE culture were divided into six levels. The results show that Brazilian industries had an innovative culture and a strong focus on circular issues, while the other industries displayed a medium and integrated culture. Other general results show that the industries performed better in variables such as "sustainability" and "economic circulation." In contrast, the variables "consumption and use" and "distribution and sales" require improvement and greater attention. It is recommended that this tool be continued in other case studies to assess their actual CEL in order to facilitate the identification of circular strategies accordingly; and thus, contribute to the food sector progress. • A comparison is presented of the implementation of CE practices in the food industry in Brazil, Ecuador, and Colombia. • A combined approach, including MCDM and an assessment tool, is proposed to evaluate the level of CE. • Companies performed better on variables such as "sustainability" and "economic circle." • The companies studied need improvements in the variables "consumption and use" and "distribution and sales." • Suggestions are provided to improve the CE level of food industries.