Process management in the traceability system LeTrA Q of goat and sheep milk in Andalusia, Spain

Abstract

Objective: This paper aims to analyse the process management in the traceability system LeTtrA Q of goat and sheep milk, and thus contribute to the knowledge of the business value chain in Andalusia. Methodology: Five process management variables were studied: sample status (EM), sample results (RM), time from the sample collection to the reception in the laboratory (TT-R), time from sample reception to its analysis (TR-A), and the total time from the sample collection to its analysis (TT-A). A sample of 84,484 goat milk (628 farms) and 7,507 sheep milk (53 farms) was analyzed. A non-parametric analysis of variance was applied to the qualitative variables, while an univariate analysis was performed to the quantitative variables. Results: The comparative analysis has shown significant differences in the process management variables for the factor year and type of laboratory. Limitations: This study focuses on a single case study resulting in a limited generalization of its findings. Practical implications: The study of process management in the agri-food system contributes to the improvement of food security and it is a useful tool to enhance the technical-economic management of the farms.