Understanding the interactions of the food and agricultural system: The need for a systems approach

Authors: Hatfield, Jerry; O'Brien, Peter; DOLD, CHRISTIAN - Orise Fellow; Kistner-Thomas, Erica; WACHA, KENNETH - Orise Fellow

Submitted to: ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annual Meeting Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 7/10/2019
Publication Date: 11/12/2019
Citation: Hatfield, J.L., O'Brien, P.L., Dold, C., Kistner-Thomas, E.J., Wacha, K.M. 2019. Understanding the interactions of the food and agricultural system: The need for a systems approach. [Abstract] ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annual Meeting.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Agricultural systems focus on the production of food and that has been the primary focus in terms of ecosystem services. The agricultural complex has become quite efficient at production; however, this has come at the expense of other ecosystem services. To fully address the linkage between agricultural systems and food systems, a framework for addressing these interactions will have to focus on all the aspects of the ecosystem so we can ensure productivity, quality of the food, food safety, and a positive ecosystem impact. Typically, we have not addressed these interactions because agricultural systems have a boundary that stops at the farmgate and food systems begin with delivery to the processing component and extend in the delivery component. The increasing concern over quality and safety of food will require we begin to assemble a systems approach that will address how production can ensure both quality and safety. These are challenges that agricultural scientists need to understand and begin to address as part of the agricultural system.