Barriers to Sustainable Supply Chain Management in Food Processors MSME: A Total Interpretive Structural Modeling Approach

This research work focuses on the role of sustainability in the supply chains management (SCM) among Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the food-processing industry in Kerala, South of India. Using total interpretive structural modeling (TISM), the study analyzed the interactions between nine key barriers to SSCM in the MSME food-processing industry. The findings revealed that the top three barriers to sustainability were a lack of green purchasing practices, limited green packaging options, and insufficient recycling practices. These interrelated barriers suggest addressing one may positively impact the others. The study's results have important implications for promoting sustainability in MSMEs in the food-processing industry, highlighting the need for policymakers and regulatory bodies to provide more significant support and incentives for MSMEs to adopt sustainable practices. The study also emphasized the importance of MSMEs proactively investing in green technologies and sustainable supply chains, and engaging consumers on sustainability.