Integration of organic and local products in public food systems

Abstract

Purpose: to analyze the most suitable measures and actions for integration of organic and local products in schools and kindergartens of the Republic of Moldova to achieve development and promotion of organic sector in the country, as well as to provide more healthier and nutritious meals for all generations. Objectives: exploring different case studies worldwide of sustainable food procurement practices; analyzing how organic public food systems can support sustainable development of smallholders and family farms, with an emphasis on the effects these systems have on economic growth, public health, and environmental sustainability; analyze the status of the organic farming sector of the country and its perspective for future growth; enhancing awareness of the importance of school food and the recognition of its role within legal frameworks to transform the public procurement process. Scientific novelty and originality of the results obtained consist in an interdisciplinary approach to understanding and implementing the integration of organic and local products into public food systems, with an emphasis on sustainability, health outcomes, and socio-economic resilience. Theoretical significance: a conceptual framework has been developed to systematically integrate organic and local food products into public catering systems (e.g., schools and kindergartens). Applicative value. Current study can be used by policymakers in further improvement or development of relevant policies to support integration of organic and local products into public procurement tenders, or by other stakeholders able to take an active part in transforming the public food systems and achieving sustainable development of the organic sectors that face multiple challenges.