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What is PFID

An MSU international agriculture initiative is uniting the world's increasing demand for high-quality produce year-round with small farmers in developing countries who can meet that demand – with some help.

PFID-F&V has brought a consumer-driven system to small farmers in developing Latin American and African countries by:

• using science and technology transfer
• giving supermarkets access to produce when they need it and the way they need it

In return, farmers get a more profitable and stable market for their crops.

Who runs it: MSU's Institute of International Agriculture

Who funds it: The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)

Where is it: Central America and Africa. Specifically:

• Southern Africa ( Angola , South Africa , Zambia , Mozambique , Malawi )
• Central America
• Nicaragua
• India
• Global programs

Why it works: The program is a dynamic mix of market savvy, training, technology transfer, research, education and partnership building. It creates sustainable systems that benefit retailers, producers and consumers.

How it works:

Lets consumers drive the market

Consumers around the world have come to expect produce regardless of season. They have opened their arms and pocketbooks to items once considered exotic, such as plantains and mangos.

Consumers demand safe, consistent quality, and PFID-F&V ensures that produce from these farms deliver.

“Shoppers will not adjust to the season as they did years ago,” said associate director Robert Korstanje. “Today's market is driven by consumers who say ‘I want it now, and I want it to taste the same each time.'”

Educates and assists small producers about the needs of supermarkets and other retail outlets

PFID-FV helps them provide fruits and vegetables at the proper time, shelf ready.

Fosters partnerships

The program brings together retailers; NGOs for training, disseminating information and technologies; and universities in the United States and in client countries.

MSU's vast resources also are called upon as challenges are identified – agricultural economics, horticulture, packaging, food safety, sociology and more.