Alternative grain networks (AGNs) are micro-systems that supplement conventional food pro­duction and distribution systems, emphasizing high quality food and leveraging regional, socio-cultural, and socio-economic values. In this multiple case study analysis we compare two AGNs, Regiokorn in South Tyrol, Italy, and the Colorado Grain Chain (CGC) in the U.S., using qualitative and comparative analysis to explore the indicators of geographical proximity, cultural homogeneity, commercial viability, and community involvement. Regiokorn and the CGC differ in various ways in these operational dimensions as well as in their organizational setups, the former as a pure business network and the latter including consumer mem­bers. Our findings highlight how these two differ­ent organizational structures can be leveraged to achieve similar outcomes, and provide valuable insights for other AGNs in finding their own paths. 

PhD, RDN, CSSD; Associate Professor, Department of Human Physiology and Nutrition
Giovanna Sacchi, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano

PhD; Researcher, Faculty of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences
Camilla Sartori, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano

MA; Master’s Student in Food Sciences for Innovation and Authenticity
Christian Fischer, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano

PhD; Professor, Agricultural Economics