A Framework for Enhancing Functional Sustainability in Plant-Based Food Processing

Thesis Abstract

The rapid global shift towards plant-based diets and the increasing demand for sustainable food products have underscored the need for innovative frameworks that enhance the functional sustainability of plant-based food processing systems. Despite the growing emphasis on sustainability, current processing methods often overlook integrated approaches that balance environmental, economic, and social dimensions, leading to inefficiencies and compromised product quality. This study aims to develop and validate a comprehensive framework that enhances the functional sustainability of plant-based food processing by integrating process optimization, raw material management, and sustainability assessment tools. The specific objectives are to identify key factors influencing sustainability in plant-based processing, formulate an integrated model based on relevant theories such as the Resource-Based View (RBV) and the Ecological Modernization Theory, and empirically evaluate the framework’s applicability in real-world processing facilities. Utilizing a mixed-methods research design, the study combines qualitative explorations with quantitative validation. The qualitative phase involved semi-structured interviews with 30 plant-based food processing industry experts to identify critical sustainability factors, analyzed using thematic analysis to generate core components of the framework. The quantitative phase employed a cross-sectional survey of 150 plant-based processing firms selected through stratified random sampling, with data collected via structured questionnaires measuring perceptions of sustainability practices, operational efficiencies, and environmental impacts. The reliability of the instruments was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha coefficients exceeding 0.80, and validity was ensured through expert review and pilot testing. Data analysis involved multiple regression analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the relationships among variables and validate the proposed framework. The anticipated findings include the identification of key operational, technological, and managerial factors that directly influence the sustainability outcomes in plant-based food processing. It is expected that the integrated framework will demonstrate significant predictive power, with process optimization and raw material management emerging as critical components for enhancing sustainability performance. The model aims to illustrate how strategic resource utilization and technological innovations mediate sustainable practices, thereby providing a coherent basis for decision-making. The study also anticipates revealing barriers to implementation and opportunities for policy intervention within the context of sustainable food systems. This research contributes to the body of knowledge by proposing a novel, empirically validated framework that explicitly links process-level innovations with broader sustainability objectives in plant-based food processing. It advances theoretical understanding by operationalizing models rooted in RBV and Ecological Modernization Theory, providing practical insights into how firms can strategically leverage internal resources and technological advancements toward sustainability goals. Additionally, the framework offers a tool for practitioners and policymakers to guide sustainability assessments and improvements, aligning industry operations with global environmental standards and consumer expectations. The main conclusion emphasizes the importance of adopting an integrated, resource-efficient approach to plant-based food processing, which can lead to enhanced environmental performance, reduced waste, and improved product quality. Based on the findings, recommendations include integrating sustainability metrics into operational decision-making, investing in innovative processing technologies, and fostering industry collaboration to share best practices. The study also suggests avenues for future research to explore longitudinal impacts of framework implementation and sectoral variations across different geographic contexts. Ultimately, this research aims to support the transition toward more sustainable and resilient plant-based food systems by providing a scientifically grounded, actionable framework for industry stakeholders.