App-based food loss quantification: Farmers' perspectives on the role of digital agriculture in southwestern British Columbia

Food loss is a systemic problem contributing to negative environmental, social, and economic impacts. Digital agriculture technologies (DAT) such as farm apps may provide a useful method for quantifying food loss and therefore help reduce and prevent food loss. To assess the potential role of DAT for food loss quantification, seven farmers in southwest BC tested a farm management app called LiteFarm and digitally recorded their harvest logs. Drawing upon semi-structured key informant interviews, this study found that time scarcity was one of the major barriers to using the app. An unexpected benefit to the app is that DAT can better inform land use decisions when utilized for pre-harvest planning. Findings from this study highlight farmers' struggles to focus on sustainability and reducing food loss, especially when balancing economic interests. Inclusive technologies and deeper engagement with farmers are needed to develop food loss quantification methods that fit diverse farming contexts.