The power of grain in a local food chain

My name is Rogier Scherpbier. I am a Nuffield Scholar 2023 and ranked number 47 in the Netherlands. With my company Zonnespelt, I specialize in the processing of organic and biodynamic grains and produce organic grain products for human consumption. I have been working in the agricultural sector since 2004. At the age of 15, I started working at a biodynamic arable farm “De Zonneboog”. The farm is owned by Martijn and Monique and is 180 ha of areal crops and around 50 cows. I started Initially full-time, and later part-time alongside my studies in Sports Management. In 2014, I took a minor in Entrepreneurship, for which I had to write a business plan. For this, I conducted market research into spelt processing in the Netherlands. I discovered that there were no dehulling facilities in the Flevopolder region, even though most grains are grown there. With this knowledge, Martijn and me decided to start our own grain processing on the farm for dehulling and processing our own spelt. In 2016, I took over the processing and became the owner of this company, “Zonnespelt"

I based my research on the following main question: 
What is the power of grain in a local food chain? 
To get an answer to this main question, my sub-questions became:
1.    The use of grain 
2.    The impact of the right varieties 
3.    The power of a local food chain
4.    Adding value to products in local supply chains 

My travels 
I traveled to several countries to participate in the Nuffield program, to see and learn as much as possible from other Nuffielders in the world, and to find an answer to my topic: what is the power of grain in a local food chain?
It started with the pre-CSC  in the UK and the CSC in Vancouver Canada. I spend a week in Alberta and visited more interesting companies. After that I went to the Triennial  in New Zealand. After the Triennial I stayed in New Zealand for almost three weeks, to do some personal travelling. 
Around September I visited Italy. I went to Sicily for 8 days to visit grain companies, and in October I went to Rome for the World Food Forum. 
In April 2024 I applied for an inspirational trip with the Dutch government to Denmark. This trip was orientated around the topic of plant based food. 
On my last Nuffield trip I went to Africa. I visited South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana. I participated in a GFP  program, that gave me a lot of insights in the way Zimbabwean people manage their business and alle the challenges in this country.  
Travel highlights 
During my travels, I met a number of people who greatly inspired me. Regarding the theme of the power of grain in the local supply chain, I want to highlight a few of them and sharing what inspired me and what I plan to integrate into my own business. 

Carlos Bagrie from New Zealand 
Carlos and his wife Nadia run a farm in Queenstown, NZ. They have transformed the business into one of the most diverse farms in New Zealand. They have a market garden to supply local restaurants with vegetables and herbs. In addition, they have their own lamb slaughterhouse to provide responsible and ethical meat from the region directly to consumers. Their farm also serves as a wedding venue, and they have recently launched their own beer brand, for which they grow grains to use in the brewing process. The part that inspire me the most is the holistic view and story they tell to consumers. I really want to upgrade that story myself because its similar how we started as well on the farm. As we speak, we are exploring the possibility of creating a bigger brand that connects Zonnespelt and De Zonneboog more closely, highlighting the story and traceability for consumers.

Rob Fletcher from Zimbabwe
During our trip to Zimbabwe, we had a tour on Rob’s farm. This was one of the most remarkable visits I have ever experienced. Rob’s powerful story, combined with the motivation and inspiration he conveyed through his business, was exceptionally inspiring. In Zimbabwe, starting in 2000, a land reform was implemented to dispossess white farmers of their land and redistribute it to the local population. Rob’s family was also affected by this. However, through local connections and his entrepreneurial spirit, Rob has managed to retain the family business. Additionally, Rob has built an impressive brand, launching his own line of chili sauces, Dr Trouble Hot Sauce, which is sold in 13 countries. The strength this man demonstrated in the face of so many challenges, along with his inspiring story of building his own brand and business, is something that will always stay with me. It’s giving me a view on my business that I should stay focused on my inner drive and the people around me who are connected to the business. The strength he built on the farm with a team that goes beyond just work is something I admire and really want to incorporate into my own business. So working together on that bigger story is what I’m aiming for. 

Giuseppe Li Rossi from Sicily
In Sicily, we visited many wonderful companies and mills working with organic and ancient grains, and Giuseppe was one of them. He runs a beautiful company in Sicily, where he multiplies and breeds ancient grain varieties to create populations from them. He is also the chairman of a national group of farmers who work in a similar way. His goal is to preserve pure ancient grain varieties and continue to breed them to maintain their strength. In Italy, and especially in Sicily, there is a strong demand for local, organic, and pure products. People care about healthy and local food and are willing to pay more for it. There are also farmers who are deeply committed and intrinsically motivated to contribute to this. Giuseppe inspired me in such a way that, as soon as I returned home, I began working on new connections to help source new seeds for my business. In the coming years, I want to offer a wider variety of grains with different colors, tastes, and nutritional profiles for my customers. Be different and start doing by what you believe in. 

 
 
The power of grain in the local supply chain

1: The use of grain
Grain is arguably one of the most accessible and important food sources for local communities worldwide. It is a crop that can be grown, processed, and multiplied almost anywhere in the world (Wageningen University & Research, 2023) . The strength of the seeds, deep rooting, and resilience to weather make it a true globetrotter, providing the essential foundation of our food worldwide (WWF Nederland, 2023) . Much grain is indeed grown for human consumption, but a large portion is also cultivated to serve as animal feed. These are often different varieties with higher yields but generally lower nutritional content. Additionally, grain contains many vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, forming the basis for a generally healthy diet (van Berkel, 2016) .

The possibility of global cultivation also creates a competitive market. The advantage is that it is an accessible product, even for people with low incomes. The downside is that due to this great competition, in many countries with higher production costs, it is not feasible to grow a quality product at a fair price for farmers. In countries like the Netherlands, this makes grain cultivation quite challenging. The land prices, and cost of fuel and seed are one of the highest in the world. On the other side we need grain cultivation to keep the soil balanced and to give it a break from all the crops that place intensive demands on the soil, such as vegetables. Additionally, the Netherlands is a country with relatively high bread consumption, leading to a strong demand for baking-quality grains, most of which are currently imported. Grain travels an average of 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers from farm to customer. This massive food miles don’t have a good impact on our climate. The transportation of grains contributes significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions. A study published in ‘Nature Food’ has shown that food transportation accounts for nearly 20% of the total emissions of the food system, with domestic grain transport emissions being 1.4 times higher than those of international transport. By producing locally, we can reduce total transport emissions by 8% (Li et al., 2022) . This highlights the substantial climate impact associated with the movement of grain products. So, if we can lower them it’s direct positive climate impact. My view is that this must and can be done differently, which is what I am committed to.

During my Nuffield travels, I visited many agricultural companies. On most of these farms, a significant portion of their land is used for grain cultivation. Often for the global market, but some also aim to focus on the local market, adding value to their products in this way. 

2: The impact of the right varieties
Globally, there is an enormous number of grain varieties. You have the grain types wheat, durum wheat, spelt, rye, barley, oats, millet, teff, triticale, emmer wheat and einkorn, but for all these types, there are also many varieties. The most common grains are wheat, spelt, rye, oats and barley, and these are also the grains with the most varieties bred. Breeding also happens in nature. It involves crossing varieties, hoping that the strong and good genes of the varieties further strengthen each other. We, as humans, can influence this as well, which is how we nowadays achieve varieties that generate such high yields. However, the focus is often on the yield and disease resistance of the crops. Flavor and nutrients are less important because that is not what farmers get paid for. 
Varieties are selected based on yield and cost, making them rich in starch but poor in essential nutrients such as proteins and vitamins. This reduces the nutritional value for consumers and highlights the gap between agriculture focused on animal feed and human consumption, undermining the demand for nutritious food (Researchgate, 2020) . Furthermore, modern agriculture is heavily focused on maximizing yield per hectare, but this often comes at the expense of food quality. The emphasis on quantity means that the nutritional value, taste, and sustainability of crops are often overlooked. This impacts consumer health, as many of the crops produced globally show little variation in their genetic composition and nutritional value (Wageningen University, 2019) .
During my travels, I visited several farms that have started selling their grains more locally again. These farms often focused more on varieties with a great taste and an interesting story, such as those grown in a particular region. These products are sought after by bakeries or breweries because they stand out from the global market and also tell a story.
 For me, it was a valuable insight that if you want to get more out of your product, you always have to add something that others do not.

 
3: De power of a local food chain
The power of the local food chain is increasingly recognized as key to the sustainability of the food system. In a world where biodiversity is declining and climate change poses a threat, the local food chain offers a solution. By producing and consuming locally, agricultural practices can become more sustainable, and local communities can grow stronger. Furthermore, the local chain plays an important role in protecting biodiversity, restoring soils, and minimizing transport emissions (Brouwer, B., 2023 ; Wageningen University & Research, 2023) .  

4: Adding value to products in local supply chains
One of the biggest challenges in the grain supply chain in the Netherlands is that it competes directly with the global market. The large-scale cultivation and efficient organization of production worldwide lead to highly competitive prices. To add value to grain and offer the entire supply chain a fair price, telling your story and branding are incredibly important. Your values and unique selling points can ensure that people consciously choose your products because, by buying them, they are also contributing to those values. During my travels, I became even more aware of this. The companies that stand out in the agricultural sector are all businesses that have built a brand, allowing people to make a conscious choice for their products. You truly add value to your products and your company. People want to know what they are buying, from who, and what that person stands for.
Sharing this story not only raises consumer awareness but also contributes to strengthening the local economy. Consumers who gain a better understanding of the impact of their food choices are more likely to choose local products, which benefits the regional economy (SBB, 2020) . Furthermore, sustainable farming practices such as organic cultivation and agroecology, support biodiversity and help reduce the ecological footprint of food production. Farmers can inspire others to make sustainable choices, leading to a greater positive impact on the environment (WWF Netherlands, 2022) .  
Storytelling also builds trust between farmers and consumers. 
More consumers want to know who produces their food and how it is grown and brought to their table. By being transparent about their practices, farmers create a direct connection with consumers, which can lead to greater appreciation for their work and a fair price for their products. Initiatives like ‘Boerschappen’ show how transparency contributes to a more sustainable food system (NMU, 2021).
 
Conclusions 

What is the power of grain in a local food chain?
Grain is not just a product with a rich history and a critical role in our diet; it holds immense potential to contribute to the sustainability of food production and consumption. The power of grain in a local food chain is that by selecting the right grain varieties, harnessing its versatility, recognizing the value of local supply chains, and sharing the stories behind it, we can restore grain to the heart of a more sustainable food system. It is time to revalue grain as a product, seize its opportunities, and invest in the local chains that enable its many benefits to come to life.

Use the right varieties 
Selecting the right grain varieties has significant implications for both sustainable agriculture and the quality of the end product. Varieties specifically suited to local climates and soils can boost yields while enhancing resistance to diseases and pests. By utilizing local varieties, agricultural biodiversity can flourish, contributing to more resilient farming systems. In the context of sustainable agriculture, using the right varieties offers numerous advantages. For instance, certain varieties are better adapted to drought or other challenging climate conditions, making them particularly suitable for a future shaped by climate change. The choice of varieties also directly affects the nutritional value of the grain. Older, less industrialized grain varieties often retain more nutrients, such as fiber, minerals, and proteins, which are often lost in modern industrial farming. However, these varieties typically yield less, necessitating a balance between productivity and quality to remain economically viable. Harnessing the potential of the right grain varieties for your purpose, helps enhance both the ecological value and nutritional quality of our food. 

Use the versatility of grain
Grain is exceptionally versatile. It can be processed and utilized in countless ways, from milling flour for bread to creating breakfast cereals or brewing beer and making pasta. Beyond its role in human nutrition, grain contributes to soil health. Grain straw, for example, is a key organic substance for maintaining healthy soil, essential for intensive agriculture. Grain also finds applications in other industries, such as bio-based manufacturing for sustainable materials and animal feed in farming. Moreover, innovative uses like an own pasta brand, ice cream and fermented beverages open up further possibilities. Exploring alternative grain products is an opportunity worth pursuing.

Work in a local supply chain
The importance of local food supply chains cannot be overstated, particularly when it comes to grain. By producing, processing, and consuming grain locally, we can reduce the environmental impact of food transportation by 8%, while strengthening local economies. Local supply chains offer advantages like shorter transportation distances, less packaging waste, and reduced energy consumption, all of which contribute to a smaller ecological footprint. Additionally, local grain production and processing have the potential to enhance food security. Reducing reliance on international markets and long supply chains enables communities to respond better to local food needs and preferences. Locally processed grain products are often more sustainable and nutritious, being fresher and less processed. Strengthening local chains also preserves agricultural land, creates regional jobs, and provides opportunities for smaller farmers and producers to stand out in the market.

Tell your story 
Storytelling is a powerful way to strengthen the connection between producers and consumers. In the world of local grain, it is crucial to share the story behind the product: from the farmer growing the grain to the baker transforming it into food. Stories create a personal bond with consumers, increasing the value they place on locally produced foods. This not only strengthens brand identity but also promotes sustainable choices. The story of local grain can also serve as an educational tool, raising consumer awareness about the benefits of locally sourced products: healthier soils, a reduced ecological footprint, and contributions to local economies. Such stories can address growing concerns about the environmental impact of large-scale industrial agriculture and food production. Highlighting the narratives around grain can inspire consumers to make more conscious choices, driving demand for locally produced grain and grain products. A compelling grain story also helps ensure product authenticity. It emphasizes the roles of farmers, local communities, and the sustainable methods used in cultivation and processing. These stories are vital in developing a more transparent and sustainable food system, where consumers are not only informed but also motivated to adjust their purchasing behavior. 
Recommendations

Seed producers 
Seed producers can shift the focus towards biodiversity and seed quality in the coming years through breeding. They should aim to provide a wider range of varieties that the supply chain can work with. The focus should be on taste and healthy nutritional value, and this knowledge should also be shared with the growers.
Growers 
For farmers, it is important to be more conscious of the products they grow. Consider the varieties you plant and, most importantly, the reasons behind your choices. Engage in conversations with seed suppliers. Think about where you want to go with the final product and select the appropriate seeds for that purpose. Build your own supply chain. As a farmer, you can create strong local chains by connecting with bakers and consumers and by telling your story. In doing so, you create added value for your products.
Processors
For processors, their knowledge and the quality of local grains are essential to producing high-quality end products. Be open to processing smaller batches of grain and collaborate with farmers to strengthen local supply chains.
Bakers
Bakers play a key role in this process. They are the ones who convey the product and its story to consumers. Choose local suppliers deliberately and use grain from known sources. There is definitely potential for baking with Dutch grain, as the sector has already proven. It may be more challenging, but demand is increasing, and it provides a strong unique selling point.
Consumers
As consumers, we should be more aware of where our food comes from and what needs to be done to get it onto our plates. Make conscious choices about the food you buy and eat. Choose products with known origins and understand how they are grown. You can do this by purchasing local products, preferably from farmers who commit to traceable and healthy food, farmers who have a positive impact on biodiversity and the landscape. By doing so, you directly contribute to a better and more sustainable future for agriculture.
For everyone involved in the supply chain, I recommend reading the magazine "De kracht van graan in de korte keten", my Nuffield project, which offers more information on this topic and will help you make informed and conscious choices.

Personal impact 
My Nuffield Scholarship is one of the most valuable experiences I’ve had, playing a key role in shaping both myself as a person and as an entrepreneur. The insights it provides, the opportunities it offers, and the global network of like-minded people open so many doors. It makes me want to take bigger steps, create even more impact, and know that the opportunities are there, but I have to seize them. It also makes me restless, as I am far from where I want to be. But fortunately, my Nuffield Scholarship does not end here. Once a Nuffield Scholar, always a Nuffield Scholar!
Business impact
The last two years have been really inspiring for me and it gave me a lot of input for my company Zonnespelt. The specific actions that came out of my Nuffield are big. 
-    Because of my Nuffield journey I chose to hire my first staff member. 
-    My turnover doubled in my two Nuffield years because of my focus, inspiration from Nuffield scholars worldwide and the help of my new staff members. 
-    We are building a bigger brand for the coming years, where the story connects land to consumer and farm to fork.
-    We bought a stone mill so we can double our business in the next two years and have an extra step in the chain. More knowledge and more capacity in the business. 
-    And we are working on a stronger cooperation with local bakeries in the coming years. 
If you have the chance to do it, JUST DO IT!  

 
A big and special thanks to…

My wife Jorit for joining me in this life changing journey. 
My Nuffield year group, Carina, Linda, Xander and Edwin, for the great time, talks and friendship we build the past two years. 
Nuffield NL and specialy the Dutch board: Djuke, Annechien, Marianne and Alfons for their support, help and opportunity to join this great adventure. 
My Sponsor Rabobank for providing me this opportunity.