Quality control in nonstaple food markets: evidence from India
基于印度四州的原始调查数据，研究发现农产品价值链中关于不可观测品质的信息流通很少，种植者通过干燥、分级和包装获得溢价，但缺乏对卫生和农业实践的激励。
Abstract Using original survey data collected on growers, traders, processors, markets, and village communities, we will compare the situation in four states: Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Orissa. We examine the way that information about crop attributes is conveyed (or not) along the value chain. We find that little information circulates about unobservable crop characteristics. Growers receive a price premium when they dry, grade, and pack their produce, but we find no evidence that information about crop salubrity or agricultural practices circulates through the value chain or that growers are encouraged to follow specific agricultural practices for quality purposes. Market infrastructure is deficient regarding sanitation, with few public toilets, inadequate drainage, and no coordinated pest control.