16 pages., via online journal., raceability system has received wide attention in solving food safety issues, via which food information could be tracked back to producer/farmers. Consumers need to obtain this information from producers or social networks, trust in the information, and consequently assess perceived risks, especially when food scandals are exposed to the media. In this study, we introduce the social embeddedness theory to understand how consumers' social activities affect their risk perceptions on traceable food. Specifically, we investigate how risk perceptions are predicted by the interpersonal relationships, organizational level and social-level relationships. Results show that the interpersonal relationships were associated with lower levels of risk perceptions, while organizational and social relationships impacted consumer's risk perceptions at middle and higher levels, respectively. Results also show that the “ripple effect” extended to effect of risk events with negative information, however, did not exist for the group exposed to positive information. Potential food safety implications have been proposed to identify for effective risk mitigation under media coverages.
9 pages., Article # 1RIB4, Via online journal., Food hubs represent a business model through which farmers can collectively market product to access new supply chains and buyers can efficiently access locally sourced foods. Many farmer marketing cooperatives fit within the food hub definition and have existed for decades. Accordingly, much can be learned from them to support food hub business planning efforts. We developed and synthesized case studies of three successful cooperatives in order to match key food hub operational challenges with recommended best management practices. Such information is useful for Extension education efforts supporting the development of economically viable food hub businesses.
16 pages., via online journal., This study examines community economic development (CED) initiatives and focuses on
community shared agriculture (CSA) as an alternative form of farming to industrialized agriculture.
CSA connects the farmers directly with consumers, such that both farmers and consumers share the
benefits and risks involved in agriculture. The purpose of this study was to understand what
motivates individuals to become involved in a CSA and what involvement in CSA means for them.
As a point of departure, the ecological and social psychological problems associated with
industrialized agriculture are elucidated. Empowerment theory, social vitality, and sense of
community were used as conceptual frameworks. Data were collected on a community farm in
midwest Ontario using a participant-observer mode of inquiry and open-ended interviews. The
themes that emerged were categorized under empowerment, social vitality, and sense of
community.
