Transformations of Social Metabolism through Short Food Supply Chains: Strategies Toward a Sustainable Agri-Food Economy

Abstract

The study analyzes how short food supply chains (SFSCs) transform social metabolism in agri-food territories, shaping new ecological, economic, and socio-cultural dynamics. Its general objective was to identify the metabolic transformations derived from the relocalization of productive flows and the strengthening of sustainable agri-food economies. The methodology was qualitative, with a territorial focus and interpretive design, employing semi-structured interviews with rural actors in Huila, Caquetá, and Magdalena between 2023 and 2025. The results reveal a territorialized social metabolism, characterized by ecological circularity, value redistribution, and the reconstruction of community networks. It is concluded that SFSCs reduce dependence on external inputs, strengthen food sovereignty, and improve territorial equity.