Work

Farmers’ perception of post-pandemic economic performance: do short food supply chains reduce cognitive biases?

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study explores whether participation in short food supply chains (SFSCs) reduces perception gaps and cognitive biases in farmers’ evaluation of financial performance in post-pandemic conditions. Research design and methods: survey data from 76 SFSC and 95 non-SFSC-farms in Poland were compared with actual data from the FADN system to assess accuracy in estimating production, income, and cost changes. Findings:SFSC farmers demonstrated more accurate and optimistic assessments of economic indicators, particularly for production and income, compared to non-SFSC peers. Differences were statistically significant, suggesting better perception and reduced bias. Implications and recommendations: encouraging SFSC participation and offering training in accounting and financial literacy may help farmers make more informed decisions and reduce cognitive distortions. Contribution and value added: by applying behavioural economics, Sustainable Systems Theory, and Social–Ecological Systems Theory, the study highlights SFSCs as tools for increasing farmers’ adaptive capacity, market awareness, and resilience in uncertain conditions.

Source: Review of Behavioral Economics

DOI: 10.1108/rbe-04-2025-0228

Authors: Katarzyna Smędzik-Ambroży, Sebastian Stępień, Fabian Siemiatowski, Borychowski Michał

Institution: Poznań University of Economics and Business

Language: English

Topic: Organic Food and Agriculture

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, No poverty, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: green

Funder: Narodowe Centrum Nauki