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Updated in [June 30th, 2023]

This course, Understanding Food Supply Chains in a Time of Crisis, provides an overview of the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic to the agri-food supply chain. Learners will explore contingency plans for ensuring food security during COVID-19 in Europe, and gain an understanding of the complexity of the agri-food supply chain and its codependency with other sectors. They will also hear from companies making a difference with innovative digital food services and solutions. This course is designed for all EU consumers and citizens who are concerned about where their food comes from when normal life is disrupted. No prior knowledge is required on the subject to follow this course. The Educator team has limited availability to answer questions or respond to comments during this course, but encourages learners to interact and support each other by posting their thoughts and comments and sharing their knowledge with other learners.

[Applications]
Upon completion of this course, learners will be able to apply their understanding of food supply chains in a time of crisis to their own lives. They will be able to identify the complexity of the agri-food supply chain and its codependency with other sectors, as well as recognize the innovative digital food services and solutions that are helping to ensure food security and integrity. Learners will also be able to use reliable information to make informed decisions about where their food comes from during crisis situations.

[Career Paths]
One job position path that could be recommended to learners of this course is a Food Supply Chain Manager. This role involves overseeing the entire food supply chain process, from sourcing and procurement to distribution and delivery. The Food Supply Chain Manager is responsible for ensuring that the food supply chain is efficient and cost-effective, while also ensuring that food safety and quality standards are met. They must also be able to identify and address any potential risks or issues that may arise in the supply chain.

The development trend for this role is that it is becoming increasingly important due to the increased complexity of the food supply chain. With the rise of globalisation, the food supply chain has become more complex, with more stakeholders involved and more variables to consider. As a result, the role of the Food Supply Chain Manager is becoming increasingly important in order to ensure that the food supply chain is efficient and cost-effective. Additionally, the role is becoming more important due to the increased focus on food safety and quality, as well as the need to identify and address any potential risks or issues that may arise in the supply chain.

[Education Paths]
The recommended educational path for learners of this course is a degree in Food Supply Chain Management. This degree focuses on the management of the entire food supply chain, from production to distribution. It covers topics such as food safety, logistics, and sustainability. Students will learn how to develop and implement strategies to ensure the efficient and effective flow of food products from the farm to the consumer. They will also gain an understanding of the economic, environmental, and social impacts of food supply chains. Additionally, they will learn how to use technology to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of food supply chains.

The development trend of this degree is to focus on the use of technology to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of food supply chains. This includes the use of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things to track and monitor food products from farm to consumer. Additionally, the degree will focus on the sustainability of food supply chains, including the use of renewable energy sources and the reduction of food waste. Finally, the degree will focus on the ethical and social implications of food supply chains, such as the impact of food production on the environment and the rights of workers in the food industry.