Systematic mapping study of literature in organic food value chain (1990–2021)

Abstract

Purpose The aim of the study is to systematically map the articles published in the area of organic food value chain. Many articles have been published in various domains of organic food value chain, but no significant study has been found related to the systematic mapping of literature. Design/methodology/approach This study relies on secondary data. Articles from Scopus and Google Scholar databases between January 1, 1990, and July 10, 2021, have been considered. On the basis of inclusion criteria, 56 articles have been analysed in this systematic mapping study. Findings This study describes the geographical coverage, the methodologies used, sector/industry-specific context of the articles and scope the for future research. Five clusters were identified through co-occurrence analysis: (1) “organic agriculture and sustainable value chain” (2) “organic farming and food value chain,” (3) “organic value chain and sustainable development,” (4) “organic value chain and environmental impact” and (5) organic value chain and profitability. Research limitations/implications The study considers only articles published in Scopus and Google Scholar with some specific keywords related to the value chain and organic food industry. Future studies are encouraged by considering a wide range of keywords with a larger data set. Originality/value To the best of the author's knowledge, this study is the first to have a systematic mapping of literature on the organic food value chain.